Rockschool's RSS Feedhttp://www.rockschool.co.ukRockschool's latest published news, events, picture and videos.en-gbCopyright Rockschool 2018Fri, 24 Jul 2015 17:00:00 GMTmarketing@rockschool.co.ukwebsite@rockschool.co.uk30Grade Exam Promotional Video competitionhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/rMJKg0185UQ/newsarticle.aspx<h2>Could you perform on camera?</h2><img src="/file.ashx?F=16244&O=1" height="300" width="710" alt="Grade Exam Promo Video Image" style="font-size: 10pt;" />
<h3>Here at Rockschool we believe in showcasing the best our students have to offer. That’s why we are offering you the chance to be the public face of Rockschool in our new Grade Exam promotional video!</h3>If you think you have what it takes to show off your skills on camera, <span style="font-weight: bold;">enter now</span> by <span style="font-weight: bold;">emailing</span> us at <span style="font-weight: bold;">info@rockschool.co.uk</span> or sending us a <span style="font-weight: bold;">direct message</span> on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Rockschool/137412866820" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/Rockschool" target="_blank">Twitter</a> or <a href="https://instagram.com/rockschool_ltd/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. <br />
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Any instrument is welcomed and filming will take place in <span style="font-weight: bold;">North London</span> on <span style="font-weight: bold;">Thursday 30th July 2015</span>. Participants must be available to film in this location and on this date in order to take part. <br />
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Entries close <span style="font-weight: bold;">Tuesday 28th July 2015</span> so enter now! <br />
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Terms and Conditions: <br />
<ul>
<li> Entrants must be aware that this is an unpaid opportunity to be featured in Rockschool’s Promotional Video. </li>
<li>In order to take part in the filming of this video, participants must be available for filming on Thursday 30th July 2015. </li>
<li>All entrants under 18 must have the permission of their parent(s) or guardian in order to participate in the filming of this video. </li>
<li>All entrants must be aware that Rockschool is the sole owner of all images and videos produced for this promotional video and all media will be used for promotional use only. </li>
<li> All images will be publicly used on all of Rockschool’s social media and website. </li>
<li>Rockschool’s decision is final. </li>
<li>Rockschool will never sell your details or images to any 3rd party company. </li></ul><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/rMJKg0185UQ" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=1273Win 1 of 15 Vocals Companion Guideshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/ykDzB9ZRANM/newsarticle.aspx<img src="/file.ashx?F=14959&O=1" height="300" width="710" alt="Vocals Companion Guide Comp image - for news article 1 of 15" style="font-size: 10pt;" />
<h2>Be 1 of 15 lucky winners to win one of our new Vocal Companion Guides</h2>To celebrate the launch of our new Vocals Companion Guide, we are giving you the chance to win 1 of 15 Vocals Companion Guides across our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram (that's 5 for each platform). This means that you have 3 chances to win a single Vocals Companion Guide.<br />
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Enter either via <a href="https://twitter.com" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/" target="_blank">Facebook</a> or <a href="https://instagram.com" target="_blank">Instagram</a>:<br />
<ul>
<li>To enter on Twitter, simply <span style="font-weight: bold;">follow</span> us <a href="https://twitter.com/Rockschool" target="_blank">@rockschool</a> on <a href="https://twitter.com" target="_blank">Twitter</a> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">retweet</span> our competition image on your Twitter wall.</li></ul>
<ul>
<li>To enter on Instagram, simply <span style="font-weight: bold;">follow</span> us <a href="https://instagram.com/rockschool_ltd/" target="_blank">@rockschool_ltd</a> on <a href="https://instagram.com" target="_blank">Instagram</a> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">repost</span> our competition image on your Instagram wall.</li></ul>
<ul>
<li>To enter on Facebook, simply <span style="font-weight: bold;">follow</span> us <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Rockschool/137412866820" target="_blank">@rockschool</a> on <a href="https://www.facebook.com" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and answer our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Rockschool/137412866820?sk=app_1592791000989497" target="_blank">competition question</a>.</li></ul> This awesome competition ends on <span style="font-weight: bold;">Monday 8th June 2015</span> at <span style="font-weight: bold;">23:59pm</span> and the winners will be announced on <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wednesday 10th June 2015 </span>on each platform and on the Rockschool website.
<h3> Terms and Conditions</h3>1. The competition ends at 23:59 on Monday 8th June 2015.
<ul>
<li>Instagram: Entrants can enter by following&nbsp;<span style="font-size: 13.3333330154419px;">Rockschool on Instagram @rockschool_ltd&nbsp;</span>and reposting the competition image on Instagram.&nbsp;</li></ul>
<ul>
<li>Twitter: Entrants can enter by following Rockschool on Twitter @rockschool and Retweeting the competition image</li></ul>
<ul>
<li>Facebook: Entrants can enter by following Rockschool on Facebook @rockschool and answering the competition question.</li></ul>2. The winners for each platform will be selected at random and Rockschool's decision is final.<br />
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3. The winners will be announced on the Rockschool website, Instagram, Twitter, Google+ and Facebook on Wednesday 10th June 2015.<br />
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4. The prize is for 1 of 5 Vocals Companion Guide per social platform. There will, therefore, be 15 winners in total for all three platforms. Entrants can only win a maximum of 1 Vocals Companion Guide per person and this extends to all social media platforms.<br />
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5. Rockschool accepts no responsibility for any damage that may occur to the prize in transit.<br />
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6. The competition is not open to Rockschool staff or family members.<br />
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7. By entering the competition you consent that Rockschool can publish you as a winner on the Rockschool site, Instagram, Facebook, Google+ and Twitter page.<br />
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8. Entrants under the age of 16 will need the consent of their parents or guardian.<br />
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9. This competition is open to entrants worldwide across all platforms (Facebook, Twitter and Instagram).&nbsp;<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/ykDzB9ZRANM" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=1270Vocals Companion Guide Out June 1sthttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/jVpU8dHq9IM/newsarticle.aspx<img src="/file.ashx?F=14945&O=1" height="300" width="710" alt="Article artwork" style="font-size: 10pt;" />
<h2>Vocals Companion Guide is available online and at your nearest stockist June 1st!</h2><br />
Our new Vocals Companion Guide is the essential practice and teaching accompaniment for the <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/music/graded-music-exams/vocals/" target="_blank">Rockschool 2014-2017 Vocals Syllabus</a>. With over 200 'unseen' tests for both male and female singers and over 3 hours of audio (Grade 1-8), vocalists can use this guide to maximise their exam performance.
<h3>Features</h3>
<li>Quick Study Pieces in multiple genres</li>
<li>Ear Tests including Melodic Recall, Rhythmic Recall and Harmony Vocal examples</li>
<li>Improvisation and Interpretation Pieces </li>
<li>Sight Reading Pieces</li>
<li>General Musicianship Questions</li>
<h3>Plus</h3>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Professional backing tracks:</span> specifically for QSPs and Improvisation and Interpretation</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Downloadable audio:</span> stylistically accurate examples of vocal performances across Rock and Indie, Pop and Musical Theatre, Soul and R’n’B, Jazz and Blues</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Harmony vocal backing tracks:</span> featuring multiple two-part and three-part examples</li><br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/jVpU8dHq9IM" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=1268Exam Information for Period B 2015http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/lk9cml0UkBY/newsarticle.aspx<img src="/file.ashx?F=13999&O=1" height="300" width="710" alt="period b exam information for article banner" style="font-size: 10pt;" />
<h2>Exam Information for Period B 2015</h2>
<h3><span style="font-size: 12pt;">General information</span></h3>
<ul>
<li>Ear Tests: For Grade 6 to 8 (vocals) no keys are given in advance, but candidates will be told the key before the test starts. Please refer to the syllabus guide for further clarification of this. It is recommended that the candidate tells the examiner how they have prepared the exercise to avoid any confusion.</li></ul>
<h4>Vocals</h4>
<ul>
<li>Period B 2015 is the last session that you will be able to use the old syllabus. There will be a cross-over period where either syllabus can be used which is between May and July.</li></ul>
<ul>
<li>From Period C 2015 you will ONLY be able to use the new vocal syllabus, and therefore the required criteria such as improvisation elements will be compulsory. Please refer to the vocal syllabus guide if you are unsure about the new syllabus requirements: http://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/music/graded-music-exams/vocals/</li></ul>
<ul>
<li>Microphones: a reminder that all candidates are required to bring their own microphone to the exam from Grade 4 upwards. Rockschool centres are not responsible for providing a microphone for the purpose of an exam- please check with your designated centre directly if you have any queries regarding equipment.</li></ul>
<h4>Theory</h4>
<ul>
<li>Please note that all Theory exam dates are set- we do not offer bespoke or private days for Theory exams at present.</li></ul>
<ul>
<li>Our first Theory session is on Saturday 18th July 2015.</li></ul>
<h4>Guitar</h4>
<ul>
<li>Rockschool gives you the opportunity to use acoustic guitar as well as electric guitar for Debut – Grade 2. Please note that you can’t use acoustic guitar from Grade 3 upwards due to the technical demands of the pieces.</li></ul>
<ul>
<li>To clarify: It is acceptable to use an acoustic guitar for Debut, Grade 1, and Grade 2, but not for Grade 3 upwards.</li></ul>
<ul>
<li>We are bringing out an acoustic guitar syllabus before the end of the year. Do keep checking our website and social media feeds for updates on the new syllabus release date.</li></ul>
<ul>
<li>Please note that it is your responsibility as the Guitar/ Bass player to ensure you have a working lead. It may be worth bringing a spare lead just in case.</li></ul>
<h4>Drums</h4>
<ul>
<li>Rockschool gives you the opportunity to use an electronic kit as well as an acoustic kit for Debut – Grade 5. Please note that you can’t use an electronic kit from Grade 6 upwards due to the technical demands of the pieces.</li></ul>
<ul>
<li>To clarify: It is acceptable to use an electronic kit for Debut, Grade 1, Grade 2, Grade 3, Grade 4, and Grade 5, but for Grades 6-8 an electronic kit is NOT acceptable.</li></ul>
<ul>
<li>For all drum exams in Rockschool centres the expectation is that the exam will be done on an acoustic kit (i.e. not electronic), regardless of the level, unless previously agreed with Rockschool HQ.</li></ul>
<ul>
<li>All Rockschool drum kits will be set up in the exam room for Right- Handed purposes. If you require the drum kit to be set up for Left-Handed use then please mention this when you enter for the exam online.</li></ul>
<ul>
<li>Please liaise with your chosen exam centre directly if you have any queries regarding equipment.</li></ul>
<h4>Piano</h4>
<ul>
<li>We are planning to release a new contemporary piano syllabus for Period C 2015. The existing syllabus will have a cross-over period of a year.</li></ul>
<ul>
<li>Check the website and social media feeds for updates.</li></ul><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/lk9cml0UkBY" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=1267Win a Brand New Vintage Guitarhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/oo-ZjWb0deM/newsarticle.aspx<img title="Competition Banner" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=13965" />
<h2>Win a brand new Vintage Guitar by reposting our competition image and following us on Instagram!</h2>To celebrate the launch of our new <a href="https://instagram.com/rockschool_ltd/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> page, we are giving you the chance to win this awesome Encore E99 Vintage Guitar. It couldn't be easier to enter. Simply repost our competition image on your Instagram wall and follow us on Instagram <a href="https://instagram.com/rockschool_ltd/" target="_blank">@rockschool_ltd</a>. <br />
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This amazing competition ends on <span style="font-weight: bold;">Sunday 17th May 2015</span> at <span style="font-weight: bold;">11:59pm</span> and the winner will be announced on <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wednesday 20th May 2015</span>.<br />
<h3>Terms and Conditions </h3>1. The competition ends at 23:59 on Sunday 17th May 2015. The winner will be contacted by Direct Message on Instagram.<br />
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2. Entrants can enter by reposting the competition image on Instagram and following the ‘rockschool_ltd’ Instagram page. <br />
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3. A winner will be selected at random and Rockschool's decision is final. The winner will be announced on the Rockschool website, Instagram, Twitter, Google+ and Facebook on Wednesday 20th May 2015.<br />
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4. The prize is for a Vintage Encore E99 Guitar, Honeyburst.<br />
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5. Rockschool accepts no responsibility for any damage that may occur to the prize in transit.<br />
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6. One entry is permitted per person and entrants may only enter this competition through Instagram.<br />
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7. The competition is not open to Rockschool staff or family members.<br />
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8. By entering the competition you consent that Rockschool can publish you as a winner on the Rockschool site, Instagram, Facebook, Google+ and Twitter page. <br />
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9. Entrants under the age of 16 will need the consent of their parents or guardian.<br />
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10. This competition is open to entrants worldwide.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/oo-ZjWb0deM" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=1266We're Hiring - Creative and Performance Arts Managerhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/M4qDUxNMKqk/newsarticle.aspx<img src="/file.ashx?F=13945&O=1" height="300" width="710" alt="Performance Arts logo for Rockschool website banner" style="font-size: 10pt;" />
<h2>Do you live and breathe Performing Arts? Can you manage a growing Creative and Performance Arts department? Well, we have a job for you…</h2>
<h3>Key Duties and Responsibilities:&nbsp;</h3>
<li>
<div>Responsible for all operational aspects of Rockschool’s CaPA Examinations (centre liaison, exam booking, scheduling, exam delivery, result issuing etc).</div></li>
<li>
<div>Being the point of contact for all enquiries and promotion for the RSL CaPA Brand.&nbsp;</div></li>
<li>
<div>Operational and developmental responsibility for all CaPA Teaching and Performance Diplomas.</div></li>
<li>
<div>Ensuring delivery of 3rd party accreditation and certification agreements.&nbsp;</div></li>
<li>
<div>Being the Operational Head for the new Creative and Performing Arts Practitioner Qualifications.</div></li>
<li>
<div>Taking a significant part in the creation of new qualifications and the subsequent syllabus development.</div></li>
<li>
<div>Responsible for examiner logistics and budgets.</div></li>
<li>
<div>Developing and maintaining key relationships with clients and customers.</div></li>
<li>
<div>Having complete product knowledge.</div></li>
<li>
<div>Helping to develop the CaPA brand through all aspects of available media and marketing.</div></li>
<h3>General Duties and Responsibilities:</h3>
<div>To have an in-depth knowledge of the Creative and Performance Arts Awards syllabi, examination process and assessment criteria.</div>
<li>
<div>Knowing how to use Rockschool’s bespoke systems for scheduling and results.</div></li>
<li>
<div>Responding to all enquires regarding Rockschool CaPA (Emails, calls etc).</div></li>
<li>
<div>To effectively manage all schedules across the three exam periods.</div></li>
<li>
<div>To be an important member of both the Quality Committee and the Qualifications Development team. &nbsp;</div></li>
<li>
<div>To foster a lasting rapport with customers of Rockschool.</div></li>
<li>
<div>To work closely and effectively with external freelance employees (examiners). &nbsp;</div></li>
<li>
<div>To assist in the training of external freelance employees (examiners).</div></li>
<li>
<div>To comply with the policies and procedures of the Company at all times, as well as external policies (i.e Data Protection Act, 1998). &nbsp;&nbsp;</div></li>
<li>
<div>To carry out any training that may be necessary with development of the post.</div></li>
<li>
<div>To play a key role in promotion and marketing for CaPA (through website content and social media etc).</div></li>
<li>
<div>To maintain a passion and dedication to the development of the business.<br />
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To apply for this position, send your CV and cover letter to <a href="mailto:carolinesurey@rockschool.co.uk" style="font-family: calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">carolinesurey@rockschool.co.uk</a>.&nbsp;</div></li><br />
Closing date: <span style="font-weight: bold;">Friday 22nd May 2015</span><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/M4qDUxNMKqk" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=1264We’re hiringhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/YNefTsYlkxE/newsarticle.aspx<img src="/file.ashx?F=13916&O=1" height="300" width="710" alt="We're Hiring!" style="font-size: 10pt;" />
<h2>If you are a tenacious individual who is passionate about music education we have a job for you.</h2><br />
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<h3>The Role</h3></b>
<p></p>
<p>You will be working in the Rockschool exams team looking after our core customer base and ensuring that their exam experience is the best we can provide. You will need to liaise effectively and professionally with a wide range of clients from the general public through to key stakeholders and partners.</p>
<p><br />
</p>
<p>You will be based at our Head Office in Teddington.&nbsp;</p>
<p><br />
</p>
<p>Your day to day role will entail:</p>
<ul type="disc">
<li>Managing all exam entries for your designated area</li>
<li>Being the point of contact for each candidate, teacher and centre in your designated area of the UK</li>
<li>Carrying out data entry in connection with these exams</li>
<li>Responsibility for booking and scheduling exams days in your designated area</li>
<li>Processing and dispatching associated results</li>
<li>Manage general enquiries by phone and email</li>
<li>Provide weekend cover during exam periods as appropriate</li>
<li>Handling general exam queries and phone calls</li>
<li>Assisting with general office administration and operations such as stationary ordering</li>
<li>Attend the weekly exams team meeting, and participate, as a key member of the Rockschool&nbsp;team, in the development and implementation of the strategic plan for the UK</li></ul>
<p></p>
<h3><b>You will have:</b></h3>
<p></p>
<ul type="disc" style="margin-top:0;padding-top:0">
<li>A degree level education, along with recent demonstrable experience of developing/securing new business within education</li>
<li>A good understanding of the music industry and how music is taught in schools, preferably with knowledge of practical music exams</li>
<li>An interest in music, the music itself and the characters involved</li>
<li>Strong networking and excellent interpersonal skills, including active listening and the ability to communicate effectively and persuasively with stakeholders across the organisation and our partnerships</li>
<li>Strong customer services experience, with the ability to quickly resolve issues for our clients</li>
<li>Excellent IT skills and an ability to use technology to develop the RSL business.</li></ul>
<p></p>
<h3><b>Personal Characteristics:</b></h3>
<p></p>
<ul type="disc" style="margin-top:0;padding-top:0">
<li>Well presented, hard working, tenacious and persistent</li>
<li>Capable, professional and customer focused</li>
<li>Self-motivated, passionate, and have an entrepreneurial spirit</li>
<li>Enjoy a challenge and a fast paced corporate culture</li>
<li>Strong presence with solid influencing skills</li>
<li>Ability to develop long lasting business relationships</li></ul>
<p>To Apply for this position, contact <a href="mailto:joshuachelms@rockschool.co.uk">joshuachelms@rockschool.co.uk</a>. Closing date is Monday 18<sup>th</sup> May 2015.&nbsp;</p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/YNefTsYlkxE" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=1263Our Teacher Training Day Success Storyhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/Aj-NF6Lqebc/newsarticle.aspx<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=13772" /><br />
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<span style="font-size: 18pt;">Here at Rockschool we look to equip all our teachers with the highest level of training and support, our latest set of training days set out to do exactly that…</span><br />
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<p></p>Taking place on 7th, 14th and 21st March 2015 our expert examiners; Eva Brandt (vocals), Stuart Slater (drums) and Brian Ashworth (guitar), covered everything from specifying what examiners look for, to advice on how to prepare students for their exams. All attendees were able to benefit from hands-on advice and had the opportunity to ask their trainers direct questions regarding their discipline.<br />
<br />
<p></p><span style="font-weight: bold;">Here’s what the teachers had to say…</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;">&quot;</span><i style="font-size: 13.3333330154419px;"><span style="line-height: 17.1200008392334px; font-family: calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Highly recommended. I also am interested in training as an examiner after this session.&quot;&nbsp;<br />
</span></i><span style="line-height: 17.1200008392334px; font-family: calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Nikki Wallis (Vocals Teacher)&nbsp;<br />
<br />
</span><span style="font-size: 13.3333330154419px;">&quot;<span style="font-style: italic;">Please go. [They] will answer all of the questions you have regarding Rockschool exams</span>&quot;. <br />
Andrew Franklin (Drums Teacher)<br style="font-size: 13.3333330154419px;" />
<br style="font-size: 13.3333330154419px;" />
&quot;<span style="font-style: italic;">Understanding what happens in an exam</span>&quot; was Michael Rhodes (Guitar Teacher) highlight of his training day.&nbsp;<br />
</span><br style="font-size: 13.3333330154419px;" />
A big thank you to all the teachers that attended. We’re now looking to expand our training days nationwide, so if you’d like to attend any of our forthcoming days or any other Rockschool events, make sure you add our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/" target="_self">news feed</a>&nbsp;to your bookmarks.&nbsp;
<p></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/Aj-NF6Lqebc" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=1262Popular Music Theory Competition Winners 2015http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/PzJtwpPB3e0/newsarticle.aspx<div style="white-space: normal;">
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: center;"></p><img title="Win Rockschool Popular Music Theory Guidebooks" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=13713" data-pin-no-hover="true" />
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"></p>
<h2>Did you enter our&nbsp;Popular Music Theory Giveaway?</h2><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Our twenty lucky winners are listed below:</span><br />
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Andy Thurston</span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Carlos Fileno</span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Akilesh&nbsp;Pai</span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Robert&nbsp;&nbsp;Noble</span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Jeffrey&nbsp;&nbsp;Smith</span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Matthew Styth</span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Raul Gibson</span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sharon&nbsp;&nbsp;Maxwell</span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Rens B</span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tom Mallard</span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Callum&nbsp;&nbsp;Mosely</span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Fiona Scanlon</span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Melvin&nbsp;&nbsp;Lawrence</span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Katrina&nbsp;&nbsp;Mason</span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Carolyn&nbsp;Wood</span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Paul Mannion</span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Peter Smith</span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Stefano&nbsp;&nbsp;De Celis</span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Graham&nbsp;Sutherland</span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Rory Andrews</span></p>
<h3>Well done to all our winners!</h3>
<p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">To keep up to date with all the latest from Rockschool, make sure you follow us on Twitter, Facebook and YouTube.&nbsp;</p><br />
</div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/PzJtwpPB3e0" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=1261Win Rockschool Popular Music Theory Guidebookshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/cbAoQ9Kb3Io/newsarticle.aspx<a href="http://a.pgtb.me/lvClzl" target="_self"><img title="Win Rockschool Popular Music Theory Guidebooks" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=13713" data-pin-no-hover="true" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 18pt;">To celebrate the launch of Rockschool Popular Music Theory, we're giving away 20 free copies of the supporting Guidebooks.</span><br />
<br />
Regardless of your aspirations or stylistic preferences, the quest to become a more accomplished, expressive and articulate musician is a never-ending journey. This is a journey that is made infinitely more accessible through the acquisition of sound, theoretical and practical fundamentals. <br />
<br />
The term ‘music theory’ has all-too-often been associated with non-practical, academic-based studies. The perception is often of exams, and texts, which are devoid of industry relevant, practical application and separate from the modern, genre-specific preferences of the student. <br />
<br />
We at Rockschool are passionate about changing this perception, and to celebrate the launch of <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/books-and-apps/popular-music-theory/" target="_self">Rockschool Popular Music Theory</a> we're giving away 20 copies of the full-colour&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/books-and-apps/popular-music-theory/guidebooks" target="_self">Guidebooks</a>.
<h3>Enter Competition</h3>To enter the competition simply head over to the <a href="http://a.pgtb.me/lvClzl" target="_self">Rockschool Facebook page</a> and answer the question provided.&nbsp;<span style="font-size: 13.3333330154419px;">Good luck!</span><br />
<br />
<br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/cbAoQ9Kb3Io" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=1259Become a Music Theory Rockstar: 5 Quick Ways to Improve Your Harmonic and Intervallic Knowledgehttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/nBiy07ArWWY/newsarticle.aspx<img title="Five quick steps to improve your harmonic and intervallic knowledge" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=13711" /> <br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 18pt;"><br />
The key to becoming a more prolific, articulate and expressive musician lies in many areas, but not least in your ability to understand the harmonic, rhythmic and melodic conventions necessary to create great music i.e. studying theory!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Here’s an exercise designed to improve your harmonic and intervallic knowledge</span>. If you haven’t practiced like this before it’s a real game-changer and will serve as a strong foundation for all your further harmonic and melodic development. Be sure to practice everyday, but just for a few minutes at a time. It’s not the type of exercise that will yield the best results if practiced for hours on end.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">START &gt;&gt;</span><br />
<ol>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Pick a type of interval</span> - for example minor 7th</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Pick a key and name and play and/or sing the minor 7th in that key</span> - always be sure to name the interval first in order to develop your theoretical awareness</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Work through every key</span> - using the cycle of fourths is a good idea to ensure you don’t miss any. It also provides you with a short term goal i.e. don’t stop until you’ve reached the end of the cycle</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Focus on that interval type for one week</span> and take note of how much faster you develop on a daily basis</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Move to another interval type in week two</span> (for example flattened 5ths). At the end of 10 weeks you will have covered every pitch, in every key, at least within one octave. Be conscious that when practicing 2nds, 4ths and 6ths you are inadvertently practicing your extensions: 9ths, 11ths and 13ths.</li></ol>In just a <span style="font-weight: bold;">few months</span> you will have used a basic theoretical exercise to improve how fast you can identify, play, sing and hear every interval in western harmony. If you want to take it one step further and improve your notation skills you can also notate the intervals.
<h3>Related Products</h3>
<p>More in-depth information on Intervals can be found in the <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/books-and-apps/popular-music-theory/guidebooks/" target="_self">Popular Music Theory Guidebook&nbsp;(Grades Debut - 5)</a>.</p>
<p><br />
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<td> <a href="/books-and-apps/popular-music-theory/guidebooks/"><img src="/Resources/Images/Books/Popular-Music-Theory/Large/Grades-Debut-to-Five.png" alt="Guidebooks" width="183" height="244" /></a><br />
<br />
<span class="BookCoverTitle"> Popular Music Theory<br />
Guidebooks - (Grades Debut - 5)<br />
</span> <br />
<span class="Bold">Price:</span> £9.99<br />
<span class="Bold">Language:</span> English<br />
<a href="/books-and-apps/popular-music-theory/guidebooks/">Learn more...</a><br />
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<td> <a href="/books-and-apps/popular-music-theory/workbooks/"><img src="/Resources/Images/Books/Popular-Music-Theory/Large/Grade-One.png" alt="Workbook" width="183" height="244" /></a><br />
<br />
<span class="BookCoverTitle"> Popular Music Theory<br />
Workbook (Grade 1)<br />
</span> <br />
<span class="Bold">Price:</span> £4.99<br />
<span class="Bold">Language:</span> English<br />
<a href="/books-and-apps/popular-music-theory/workbooks/">Learn more...</a><br />
</td> </tr>
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<td colspan="2" class="RelatedProductsFooter"></td> </tr> </tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/nBiy07ArWWY" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=1256Join us at the Music Education Expo 2015http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/P8CNayVlUGs/newsarticle.aspx<iframe width="710" height="400" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/K1c8PCFUvcc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 18pt;">Music Education Expo is the UK’s largest free conference and exhibition for anyone involved in music education.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Spanning two days (March 12th &amp; 13th)</span>, <a href="http://www.musiceducationexpo.co.uk/" target="_self">the Music Education Expo</a> will offer you the chance to attend over <a href="http://www.musiceducationexpo.co.uk/conference-programme/" target="_self">50 seminars, workshops and debates</a>, browse the services of over <a href="http://www.musiceducationexpo.co.uk/exhibitor-list/?currentpage=3&catname=" target="_self">130 exhibitors</a>, and the chance to network with over 2,500 of your peers. An essential experience for any music educator. <br />
<br />
Taking place at the <a href="http://www.barbican.org.uk/" target="_self">London’s Barbican Centre</a>, the Music Education Expo 2015 will feature a fresh line-up of prominent speakers to provide you with high quality professional development, practical workshops and lively debate. There are some fantastic new features for 2015, including the Nerworking &amp; Tech Zone, headphones in the seminar theatres and the world premiere of the winning composition competition fanfares!<br />
<h4>Where To Find Us!</h4><a href="http://www.musiceducationexpo.co.uk/exhibitor-details/?id=279" target="_self">The Rockschool team</a> will be there both days at stand C25 where we'll be giving advice and guidance on all of our qualifications, and offering special discounts across all our titles. Entry is completely free, so don't miss out! <br />
<br />
<br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/P8CNayVlUGs" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=1257Rockschool Popular Music Theory - OUT NOW!http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/Upzfnd5z6BQ/newsarticle.aspx<div style="white-space: normal;"><a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/books-and-apps/popular-music-theory/"><img title="Rockschool Popular Music Theory - Out Now!" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=13685" height="360" width="710" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 24px;">Rockschool Popular Music Theory is available to buy online and from your nearest stockist now! </span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/books-and-apps/popular-music-theory/"> Rockschool Popular Music Theory</a> is the <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">essential</span> guide for contemporary musicians, composers and educators. Whatever your instrument or musical background, our theory syllabus will arm you with the practical knowledge to become a more confident, expressive and articulate musician.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">The syllabus consists of 11 books: </span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/books-and-apps/popular-music-theory/workbooks/">Graded Workbooks (Debut - Grade 8) </a>- each grade includes a sample paper <br />
<a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/books-and-apps/popular-music-theory/guidebooks/">Guidebooks</a> - these are split into two levels; Debut - Grade 5 and Grades 6 - 8 <br />
<br />
Both Guidebooks (Grades Debut - 8) from Rockschool Popular Music Theory are hand-crafted study guides for you to use alongside your Popular Music Theory Workbooks, at home or with your teacher. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Beautifully laid out in full-colour</span>, you'll have everything you need to start learning music theory - quickly and easily.
<h3>Features</h3>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Practical, relevant and engaging </span>– created specifically for the rock and pop musician</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Full-colour guidebooks </span>– choc full of beautiful imagery and diagrams to keep you on track</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Academically rigorous</span>&nbsp;<span style="font-size: 13.3333330154419px;">–</span>&nbsp;we’ve covered everything from the building blocks of music to specialist gear and advanced chord progressions</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Band analysis </span>– understand the role that each musician plays in a band performance</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Time signatures </span>– master popular music’s more unusual time signatures</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Varying the tone</span> – how to get great sounds from the most popular instruments</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Extended chords</span> – expand your chord vocabulary</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Improvisation guidance</span> – develop your creativity and get the most out of playing with other musicians</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Transposition</span> – learn how to transpose music quickly and easily, in a variety of situations</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Become a more skilled, confident, articulate musician</span> </li></ul>
<h3>Syllabus Information</h3>Everything you need to know about Rockschool Popular Music Theory can be found in the syllabus guide below.
<table class="Document">
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<td class="Icon"><img src="/Resources/Images/IconAdobeReader.gif" alt="Adobe Reader Icon" class="AdobeReader" /></td>
<td class="Text"><a href="/file.ashx?F=Rockschool-Popular-Music-Theory-Syllabus-2015-18.pdf" data-track-category="PDF" data-track-action="Download" data-track-label="Popular Music Theory Syllabus">Popular Music Theory Syllabus</a><br />
(502KB, 33 pages, .pdf)</td> </tr> </tbody></table> <br />
The free application <a href="http://get.adobe.com/uk/reader/">Adobe Reader</a> is required to view this document. </td> </tr></tbody></table>
<h3>Exam Dates</h3>Rockschool Popular Music Theory exam dates are shown in the table below. Your next exam date is <span style="font-weight: bold;">18th July 2015 </span>and you can <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/music/enter-online/options.aspx" target="_self">enter online now</a>. Learn more about <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/music/popular-music-theory/dates-and-fees/" target="_blank">theory exam dates and fees</a>.<br />
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<tr> <th class="LeftTop" style="width:43%">Exam Date</th> <th class="Center" style="width:42%">Deadline Date for Entry</th> <th class="RightTop" style="width:15%">Period</th> </tr>
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<td class="LeftLeft">5th March 2016&nbsp;</td>
<td>5th February 2016</td>
<td class="CenterRight">A</td> </tr>
<tr>
<td class="LeftLeft">18th July 2015</td>
<td>19th June 2015&nbsp;</td>
<td class="CenterRight">B</td> </tr>
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<td class="LeftLeft">31st October 2015 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</td>
<td>2nd October 2015&nbsp;</td>
<td class="CenterRight">C</td> </tr>
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<h3>Purchase Books</h3>Rockschool Popular Music Theory is available to buy in-store from your <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/books-and-apps/find-a-store/">nearest Rockschool stockist</a> and <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/series/6460/rockschool-popular-music-theory/">online through Musicroom.com</a>.
<h3>What's covered in the Theory Exams?</h3>Detailed information on Rockschool's Popular Music Theory Exams can be found in the <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=Rockschool-Popular-Music-Theory-Syllabus-2015-18.pdf" target="_self">syllabus guide</a>. Graded Popular Music Theory Exams are available from Debut - Grade 8 and consist of the following elements;
<ul class="pad-bottom-none">
<li><b>Music Notation (20%)</b> – all questions in this section relate to music notation</li>
<li><b>Popular Music Harmony (25%)</b> – all questions in this section relate to music harmony</li>
<li><b>Band Knowledge (25%)</b> – this section is in two parts, with each part covering a range of instruments;
<ul class="pad-top-none pad-bottom-none">
<li>Part 1: Identification</li>
<li>Part 2: Notation and Techniques</li> </ul></li>
<li><b>Band Analysis (30%)</b> – in this section the questions will include the identification of music notation, harmony, and the stylistic characteristics of Guitar, Bass, Drums, Keys, and Vocals in a multi-instrumental context.</li> </ul></div> <br />
<br />
Information on areas covered at each grade can also be found in the <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/music/popular-music-theory/" target="_self">qualification section</a>.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/Upzfnd5z6BQ" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=1258Learn To Play Day 2015 - Jason Bowld PMT Sessionhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/HdYHKehVQHY/newsarticle.aspx<a href="http://www.musicforall.org.uk/learntoplayday/" target="_self"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=12694" /></a> <br />
<span style="font-size: 18pt;">For Learn To Play Day 2015 Rockschool are teaming up with PMT Birmingham and metal legend Jason Bowld to offer a one-off taster session for beginner drummers. </span><br />
<br />
Jason will be holding an hour-long taster session from <span style="font-weight: bold;">11:00am onwards</span> as well as offering free one-to-one lessons throughout the day. The event is an ideal opportunity for all beginners and first timers to get invaluable hints and tips from one of the biggest drummers in rock and metal. <a href="http://www.pmtonline.co.uk/blog/2014/12/10/learn-to-play-day-2015/" target="_self">PMT will also be giving free lessons</a> on all instruments, so whether you have always wanted to play or you used to play, this is the day for you!
<div>
<h3>Jason's Set</h3>Jason’s session will cover the following techniques, hints and tips:
<ul>
<li>Getting started on the drums</li>
<li>How to hold the sticks</li>
<li>Sticking patterns and techniques</li>
<li>Common problems and how to overcome them</li>
<li>Rockschool grades and performance pieces</li>
<li>Stylistic techniques, fills and grooves</li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">If you miss Jason's set don't worry - he'll be giving free drum lessons from 9:00am-5:00pm in-store</span>. There will also be huge discounts on all Rockschool titles, so make sure you get down to the store early!<br />
<br />
<b>Check out Jason in action below.</b><br />
<br />
<iframe width="710" height="400" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/videoseries?list=PLmxjkwTA3YF9lHcjDvqdhU5rHS-O_I-pG" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
<h3>Location</h3>Jason's set will be taking place at <a href="http://www.pmtonline.co.uk/birmingham.html" target="_self">Professional Music Technology</a> in Birmingham.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">PMT Birmingham</span><br />
136 Lawley Middleway<br />
Birmingham B4 7XX<br />
T: 0121 359 5056<br />
W: <a href="http://www.pmtonline.co.uk" target="_self">www.pmtonline.co.uk</a><br />
<h3>Learn to Play Day</h3><a href="http://www.musicforall.org.uk/learntoplayday/" target="_self"> Learn to Play Day</a>&nbsp;offers anyone the opportunity to have a free lesson on a musical instrument in one of the many participating venues up and down the UK. Whether you have always wanted to play or you used to play, this is the day for you!
<h4>Participating Venues</h4>If you can't make it down to Jason's set don't fear, there are hundreds of stores offering an array of lessons and discounts on the day. Find your <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/learn-to-play-day/" target="_self">nearest participating venue</a>.
<h3>Jason Bowld</h3><a href="http://www.jasonbowld.com/" target="_self">Jason Bowld</a>&nbsp;has played with some of the biggest names in rock and metal, including Axewound, Pitchshifter and Bullet For My Valentine and will be giving various hints and tips in his live session at 11:00am.</div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/HdYHKehVQHY" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=1255Rockschool Popular Music Theory - Coming March 9th 2015http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/WzoMsg9bZvE/newsarticle.aspx<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=11628" /> <span style="font-size: 18pt;"> Rockschool Popular Music Theory is a comprehensive set of new books aimed at those students wanting to develop their musical theory, in specific reference to rock and pop music. </span>
<h3>Do you want to be a Musical Director?</h3> Let's be honest, tackling musical theory is never number one on a musicians wish list. At Rockschool we want to remedy this – we want to make studying musical theory more enjoyable, relevant and engaging for the modern rock and pop musician. We've taken a unique approach in creating a specialist theory syllabus that’s practical, engaging and academically rigorous. <br />
<br />
Whatever your instrument or musical background our theory syllabus will enable you to become a more confident and expressive musician – and maybe even a musical director?
<h3>Features</h3>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Practical, relevant and engaging </span>– created specifically for the rock and pop musician </li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Full colour guidebooks </span>– choc full of beautiful imagery and diagrams to keep you on track</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Academically rigorous</span>&nbsp;<span style="font-size: 13.3333330154419px;">–</span>&nbsp;we’ve covered everything from the building blocks of music to specialist gear and advanced chord progressions</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Band analysis </span>– understand the role that each musician plays in a band performance</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Time signatures </span>– master popular music’s more unusual time signatures</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Varying the tone</span> – how to get great sounds from the most popular instruments </li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Extended chords</span> – expand your chord vocabulary</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Improvisation guidance</span> – develop your creativity and get the most out of playing with other musicians</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Transposition</span> – learn how to transpose music quickly and easily, in a variety of situations</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Become a more skilled, confident, articulate musician</span> </li></ul>
<h3>Theory Examination</h3> Information regarding theory examinations will be released shortly.
<h3>Learn more</h3><a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsletter-sign-up/" target="_self"> Sign up to our newsletter</a>&nbsp;to get updates on the Rockschool Popular Music Theory.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/WzoMsg9bZvE" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=1254Rockschool’s Stuart Slater presents prize to Open Mic UK Winnerhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/N4HnOsVmopE/newsarticle.aspx<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=11526" width="710px" height="405" class="pinit"/><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 16pt;">The national singing competition Open Mic UK hosted its Grand Final on Saturday 24th January and senior examiner Stuart Slater was on hand to present Georgia Bray with a unique Rockschool Diploma prize. </span> <br />
<br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/georgiabray_" target="_blank">Georgia Bray</a> battled against more than 9,000 acts that entered for <a href="http://www.openmicuk.co.uk/" target="_blank">Open Mic UK</a> this year across the UK, making it through both Regional and Area Final heats to make it to the National Grand Final. Georgia’s version of New York State of Mind impressed Stuart so much that he presented her with a free invitation to sit Rockschool’s Vocals Performance Diploma. <br />
<br />
Georgia now joins a long list of previous prize winners such as Jacob Banks, Warner Music’s Birdy, Columbia Record’s Lucy Spraggan, Union J’s Jaymi Hensley and Jahmene Douglas, both of which are now signed to Sony Music, and TeenStar competition winners Luke Friend and Emily Middlemas. <br />
<br />
The judging panel for the Grand Final included record label representatives from Sony and Universal, as well representatives from music management companies, recording studios, professional vocal coaches and of course Stuart Slater from the examination board, Rockschool. Also picked by the judging panel as winners were Tom Auton from Cardiff, Wales who win the Under 16’s age category, James Burrage from Colchester, Essex who won the 16-20’s age category, and Iain Scott from Southampton who took home the title for the 21 and Over age category.<br />
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Future Music is also about to start auditions for <a href="http://www.teenstarcompetition.co.uk/" target="_blank">TeenStar</a> which you can <a href="http://www.teenstarcompetition.co.uk/enter-now" target="_blank">enter for now</a>. Along with a brand new <a href="http://www.openmicuk.co.uk/songwriting-competition" target="_blank">Future Music Songwriting Competition</a>, which is specifically for songwriters of any age and genre.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/N4HnOsVmopE" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=1253Expert Sessions - Mike Sturgis Drums Walkthrough on iPadhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/2nKvyi8xTfE/newsarticle.aspx<iframe width="710" height="400" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/O4xVUdbirD0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe> <br />
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<h3>How to get the most out of Rockschool on KR Player</h3> Learn how to get the most out of <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/apps" target="_self">Rockschool on KR Player</a> in this in-depth drums Walkthrough with <a href="www.mikesturgis.co.uk" target="_self">Mike Sturgis</a>. In this expert tutorial Mike demonstrates just some of the great features of KR player using <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/books-and-apps/drums/gradebooks/gradeeight/" target="_self">Drums Grade 8</a> Piece – ‘Mind The Gaps’. <br />
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<h4>What you’ll learn</h4>
<ul>
<li>How to loop sections</li>
<li> How to use the metronome feature </li>
<li> How to slow down/speed up the track</li>
<li> How to build and develop your own ideas for the solo sections of Rockschool exam pieces</li></ul>
<h4>Mike Sturgis</h4> Mike has performed live and recorded with such major pop, rock and jazz names as David Bowie, Elton John, A-ha, Asia, Jack Bruce, Steve Winwood, Tom Jones, Wishbone Ash, Bob James, Randy Brecker and Bob Mintzer.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/2nKvyi8xTfE" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=1252Exam Hints and Tips for Period A 2015 Candidateshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/3cinyVX42Mw/newsarticle.aspx<span style="font-size: 18pt;">Hints and Tips for Period A candidates from the Head of Exams - Joanna Taman</span>
<h4><br />
General</h4>
<ul>
<li>If doing a Level 3 exam (Grades 6-8) then you must bring photo ID with you to show to the Examiner. If you have any queries about this then please <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/contact-us" target="_self">contact the Rockschool Head Office</a>.</li>
<li>In a Graded Exam you will be asked by the Examiner whether you would like to do your pieces or technical exercises first. All other tests for the exam will follow on from these two sections. The only exception to this is if you are using the old vocal syllabus. If you have any queries about this then please <a href="mailto:info@rockschool.co.uk" target="_self">contact our Syllabus Advisor</a>.</li>
<li>Please note that the examiner can&#8217;t turn pages for you during the exam. You should bring photocopies of the music that can be placed on the stand if your music is more than a double page.</li>
<li>Arrive at your exam 20 minutes before the start time. It is advisable that you bring water with you as this may not be available at the centre.</li></ul>
<h4>Vocals</h4>
<ul>
<li>The old vocal syllabus CAN still be used in this exam period. You can use the old syllabus up to, and including, Period B: 2015 (summer). You will not be able to use any of the old materials after this period.</li>
<li>You are no longer allowed to use five <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/music/graded-music-exams/additional-information/resources/free-choice-pieces/" target="_self">Free Choice Pieces </a>in a vocal exam - regardless if you are using the old or new syllabus. You can only have two Free Choice Pieces for a Graded Exam, and three Free Choice Pieces for a Performance Certificate exam. The other pieces must be purchased from a book. This will come into effect from 2015, and will continue indefinitely.</li>
<li>If doing the new 2014 vocal syllabus all Free Choice Pieces need to be pre-approved. This doesn't include songs from our previous syllabus, or those listed on the <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/music/graded-music-exams/vocals/wider-repertoire/" target="_self">wider repertoire list</a>. You should send the music to: <a href="mailto:freechoicepieces@rockschool.co.uk" target="_self">freechoicepieces@rockschool.co.uk</a>. You need to do this at least 3 weeks before the date of your exam.</li>
<li>If you are doing a free choice piece in the exam then please bring a photocopy of the sheet music, and a CD/MP3 for the music to be played on, for the examiner to use.</li>
<li>You are expected to bring in a microphone and lead for a vocal exam from Grade 4 upwards.</li>
<li>Please contact your exam centre directly if you would like to check what equipment is available for vocalists.</li>
<li>Candidates are allowed to sing their technical exercises at a lower octave if it better suits their voice</li></ul>
<h4>Guitar</h4>
<ul>
<li>Acoustic guitars can only be used up to Grade 2. From Grade 3 onwards an electric guitar should be used for the exam.</li>
<li>You can bring your own amp for a guitar exam at any level. Please check with your exam centre directly if you would like to check what guitar equipment is available.</li></ul>
<h4>Drums</h4>
<ul>
<li>Electronic drum kits can only be used up Grade 5.</li>
<li>All Level 3 exams (Grades 6-8) must be conducted on an acoustic kit. You may want to bring your own kit with you for Grades 6-8, but this is not essential.</li>
<li>ALL drum exams will be conducted on an acoustic kit.</li>
<li>You are allowed to bring in your own electronic drum kit up to Grade 5; you should declare this when <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/enter-online" target="_self">entering online</a>.</li>
<li>Please note that not all centres have an electronic kit and you should contact your centre directly to confirm what equipment is available before your exam.</li> </ul>
<h4>Piano</h4>
<ul>
<li>Not all exam centres have a full-size piano. Please check with your exam centre directly for the availability and type of piano.</li>
<li>An 88 key digital keyboard is acceptable for an exam at any level.</li>
<li>If you are unhappy with the resources available for your piano exam then please <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/contact-us" target="_self">contact Head Office</a>.</li>
<li>If you would like to bring your own piano/keyboard for the exam then please declare this in the 'additional notes' section of your online entry.</li>
<li>Please note that we have a new piano syllabus coming out in 2015. Details for this will be available by Spring 2015.</li></ul><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/3cinyVX42Mw" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=1251John Stevens - A Celebration Concerthttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/G6kNv20wL1o/newsarticle.aspx<div style="position: static;">
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<div style="position: static;"><span style="font-size: 18pt;">The Southbank centre are holding a one-off concert to celebrate the life of John Stevens, writer of the critically acclaimed 'Search and Reflect' handbook<br />
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<td><a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/0439386/details.html" target="_self"> <img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=9350" style="padding-right:20px" /></a></td>
<td> Provocative and progressive, John Stevens was a catalyst for radical change in European jazz.<br />
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From the 1960s until his untimely death twenty years ago, he made waves as a drummer, composer, bandleader and dedicated teacher.<br />
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John Stevens&#8217; legacy is celebrated by many of his closest musical colleagues including Anita Wardell, Annie Whitehead, Byron Wallen, Courtney Pine, Ed Jones, Gary Crosby, Jon Corbett, Louis Moholo-Moholo, Mark Sanders, Nick Stephens, Steve Beresford and Trevor Watts<br />
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It travelled from the formative days of free improv and the ever-evolving Spontaneous Music Ensemble, through a series of his own ground-breaking bands &#8211; Away, Freebop and the Dance Orchestra &#8211; and collaborations with the likes of Charlie Watts, John Martyn and Asian Dub Foundation.<br />
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<a href="http://www.southbankcentre.co.uk/whatson/john-stevens-a-celebration-85468" target="_self">Buy Tickets</a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <br />
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</div></div></div></div></div></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/G6kNv20wL1o" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=1250New workshop dates added for Yamaha Music London and Wallingford Schoolhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/bETrcDrQJ0o/newsarticle.aspx<div style="position: static;">
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<div style="position: static;"><span style="font-size: 18pt;">Great news! We've added two more workshop dates at Wallingford School and Yamaha Music London on November 18th and 20th. &nbsp;</span><br />
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<h4>What's covered?&nbsp;</h4><span style="font-weight: bold;">The workshops are completely free and will cover:</span><br />
<ul>
<li>Hints and tips on the entire Rockschool Syllabus</li>
<li>Detailed info on the new Vocals syllabus</li>
<li>Dates and information on exciting new syllabi &#8211; including Theory, Unplugged and Piano</li>
<li>What Rockschool examiners look for</li>
<li>Rockschool qualifications &#8211; how they work and what they&#8217;re worth</li>
<li>Opportunity to ask anything you like to our Business Development Manager, Emily Nash</li>
<li>Plus 20% off all Rockschool titles for all who attend</li></ul>
<h4>Locations</h4><strong>Workshops are completely free and are taking place at the following locations:</strong> <br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Tuesday 18th November, 4:00pm</span><br />
Wallingford School, St George's Road, Wallingford,<br />
OX10 8HH<br />
Phone: 01491 837 115<br />
Website: <a href="https://www.wallingford.oxon.sch.uk/" target="_self">www.wallingford.oxon.sch.uk/</a><br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Thursday 20th November, 5:30pm - 7:30pm</span><br />
Yamaha Music London, 152-160 Wardour Street<br />
London, W1F 8YA<br />
Phone: 020 7432 4400<br />
Website: <a href="http://www.yamahamusiclondon.com" target="_self">www.yamahamusiclondon.com<br />
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</a><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=1247" target="_self">See more workshop locations</a> for November.&nbsp;</td>
<td><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=8331"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=8332" style="padding-left: 20px; padding-right: 40px" /></a></td></tr></tbody></table>
<h4>Register</h4>To register your place, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/456765664463970/" target="_self">hit the event page on facebook</a>, and let us know you're coming!&nbsp;You can bring as many people as you like but please register to avoid disappointment.<br />
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See you there!&nbsp;</div></div></div></div></div></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/bETrcDrQJ0o" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=12492014 Vocals Launch Event - Watchhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/L3ZV-qZMzXI/newsarticle.aspx<div style="position: static;">
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<span style="font-size: 18pt;">On September 24th we released the new 2014 Vocals Syllabus in style at an exclusive launch event in Hoxton, London.&nbsp;</span><br />
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Check out the highlights from the night, including behind the scenes interviews with the Rockschool team. The new syllabus is available to <a href="https://www.musicroom.com/rockschool" target="_self">buy online</a> and <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/books-and-apps/find-a-store/" target="_self">in store now</a>. &nbsp;&nbsp;</div></div></div></div></div></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/L3ZV-qZMzXI" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=1248Rockschool - Now on iPadhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/Z03eRRZjAC8/newsarticle.aspx<div style="position: static;">
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<span style="font-size: 18pt;">Download entire grade books to your iPad whilst taking control of your practice with KR Player's awesome features...</span><br />
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For the first time&nbsp;in UK Music Education history, teachers and pupils can now learn music and prepare for a Rockschool exam using an iPad.&nbsp;<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/kr-player-sheet-music-reimagined/id595664677?ls=1&mt=8">The free KR Player for iPad </a>is the perfect practice tool for Rockschool exam pieces and includes everything you need to work on for your grade exam in one place. <br />
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Simply <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/kr-player-sheet-music-reimagined/id595664677?ls=1&mt=8">grab the KR Player from the App Store</a> and start downloading entire grade books, individual performance pieces or the complete supporting tests for your exam.
<h4>Features</h4>KR Player has some brilliant features to help you with your practice:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Adjust piece tempo: </span>get the right tempo for your practice</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Change keys:</span> find the right key to match your preferred playing style</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mute sections:</span> Practice with or without a backing track</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Loop sections:</span> nail the tricky sections of each piece</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Perfect scrolling: </span>smooth, seamless scrolling &#8211; page turns are a thing of the past!</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Intuitive scroll bar: </span>If it doesn't have to scroll - it doesn't, meaning the score only moves when necessary</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Any zoom, any orientation:</span> KR Player will fit with your preferred settings</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Download only what you need:</span> Download a single track or the whole book!</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Easy to use metronome: </span>get each track sounding tight with the built-in metronome</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Use in your Rockschool exam: </span>The entire contents of each grade book can now be downloaded through the KR Player, just bring your iPad and download code with you to your exam. <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/books-and-apps/app-downloads/using-kr-player-in-your-exam/">Learn more about using the KR Player in your exam</a></li></ul>
<h4>Get Started</h4><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/kr-player-sheet-music-reimagined/id595664677?ls=1&mt=8"> Download KR Player from the App Store</a> or <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/apps">find out more information</a> in our books and apps section.</div></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/Z03eRRZjAC8" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=243Free Rockschool Workshops in York, London & Bristol - Oct 18th, Nov 22nd & 29thhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/DeLDAqeMTyU/newsarticle.aspx<div style="position: static;">
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<div style="position: static;"><span style="font-size: 18pt;">Great news! We've added three more workshop dates in York, London and Bristol. Join us for specialist advice on all our exams, books and everything in-between! </span><br />
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<td> <span style="font-weight: bold;">The workshops are completely free and will cover:</span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Hints and tips on the entire Rockschool Syllabus</li>
<li>Detailed info on the new Vocals syllabus</li>
<li>Dates and information on exciting new syllabi &#8211; including Theory, Unplugged and Piano</li>
<li>What Rockschool examiners look for</li>
<li>Rockschool qualifications &#8211; how they work and what they&#8217;re worth</li>
<li>Opportunity to ask anything you like to our Business Development Manager, Emily Nash</li>
<li>Plus 20% off all Rockschool titles for all who attend</li></ul><br />
<strong>Workshops are completely free and are taking place at Musicroom stores at the following locations:</strong> <br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Saturday 18th Oct, 10:30am, <br />
</span><a href="https://www.musicroom.com/york" target="_self">Banks,<span style="font-weight: bold;">&nbsp;</span>Musicroom, 18 Lendal, York</a><a href="https://www.musicroom.com/york" target="_self"><br />
</a><span style="font-weight: bold;">Phone:</span> 01904 658836<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Saturday 22nd Nov, 10:30am</span> <br />
<a href="https://www.musicroom.com/london" target="_self">Musicroom, 11 Denmark Street, &nbsp;London</a><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Phone:&nbsp;</span><span style="color: #232323; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; background-color: #ebebeb;">020 7632 3950</span><br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Saturday 29th Nov, 10:30am,&nbsp;<br />
</span><a href="https://www.musicroom.com/bristol" target="_self">Musicroom, 30 College Green, Bristol</a>&nbsp;<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Phone:</span>&nbsp;<span style="color: #232323; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; background-color: #ebebeb;">0117 929 0390</span><br />
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<td><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=8243"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=8244" style="padding-left: 20px; padding-right: 40px" /></a></td></tr></tbody></table>
<h4>Register</h4>To register your place, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/456765664463970/" target="_self">hit the event page on facebook</a>, and let us know you're coming!&nbsp;You can bring as many people as you like but please register to avoid disappointment.<br />
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See you there!&nbsp;</div></div></div></div></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/DeLDAqeMTyU" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=1247Teaching Training Days - 2014 Vocalshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/MDRZg4kqydI/newsarticle.aspx<div style="position: static;">
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<div style="position: static;"><span style="font-size: 18pt;">We're running two specialist training days&nbsp;o</span><span style="font-size: 24px;">n Saturday 8th and 15th of November</span><span style="font-size: 18pt;">&nbsp;for vocal teachers looking to get expert advice on preparing their students for examination&nbsp;</span></div>
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<h4>What we are offering</h4>
<ul>
<li>A half day training session on the new 2014 Rockschool female and male vocal syllabus.</li>
<li>Training with experienced Rockschool examiners who are vocal specialists. </li>
<li>The opportunity to learn how Grades 1-8 are marked from a Rockschool examiner&#8217;s perspective.</li>
<li>The opportunity to network with like- minded vocal teachers from all around the UK. </li> </ul>
<h4>Our objectives</h4>
<ul>
<li>To support teachers with their knowledge of the new Rockschool syllabus. </li>
<li>To train teachers on how candidates can be successful in an exam. </li>
<li>To train teachers on understanding the current syllabi, and clarify what examiners are looking for in practical performance exams. </li>
<li>To support teachers with general queries they have regarding exams, and performance procedures. </li> </ul>
<h4>The agenda </h4> <span style="font-weight: bold;">During the training day the following areas will be covered:</span>
<ul>
<li>Vocal specific techniques, and general tips on getting the best outcomes from the new graded exam repertoire.&nbsp; </li>
<li>The new Assessment Criteria: What the examiner is looking for, and how this relates to the grade boundaries.&nbsp;</li>
<li>The new syllabus at Level 1 and 2 (Debut- Grade 5).&nbsp; </li>
<li>The new syllabus at Level 3 (Grades 6-8).&nbsp; </li>
<li>Other hints, tips, and general answers on questions you have as a vocal teacher. </li></ul>
<h4>Where and when? </h4><span style="font-weight: bold;">There will be two training day opportunities during the Autumn term.</span>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Saturday 8th November from 9am to 1pm</span>. This will take place at Rockschool&#8217;s head office in Teddington, London. </li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Saturday 15th November from 9am to 1pm</span>. This will take place at Cheadle Hulme School which is in Cheadle, Cheshire. </li>
<li>Further details of these two venues can be provided on request, and will be sent out with confirmation of your attendance. </li> </ul>
<h4>How much will this cost? </h4> <span style="font-weight: bold;">The half day training session will only cost &#163;40. This fee will include:</span>
<ul>
<li style="margin-left 40px">4 hours of training with a vocal specialist examiner</li>
<li style="margin-left 40px">Light refreshments</li>
<li style="margin-left 40px">Post-training support on email from one of the Rockschool team</li>
<li style="margin-left 40px">Exclusive access to the Assessment Criteria used by examiners for the new syllabus</li> </ul>
<h4>Register</h4> To book your place simply email teachertraining@rockschool.co.uk or call the office on 0845 460 4747 </div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/MDRZg4kqydI" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=247Get exam hints and tips at our free workshops across Ireland, October 10th - 13thhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/D7i51kGvVZU/newsarticle.aspx<div style="position: static;">
<div style="position: static;"><span style="font-size: 18pt;">Great news! Experts from Rockschool are travelling around the North and the South of Ireland to deliver specialist workshops on Rockschool&#8217;s Graded Music Exams this October.</span><br />
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<strong> These workshops will cover:</strong>
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<ul>
<li>Detailed info on the new Vocals syllabus</li>
<li>Top pro players Martin Pleass and Andy Robertson demonstrating guitar, bass and drum techniques that Rockschool exams encourage learners to develop</li>
<li>Dates and information on exciting new syllabi &#8211; including Theory, Unplugged and Piano</li>
<li>What Rockschool examiners look for</li>
<li>Rockschool qualifications &#8211; how they work and what they&#8217;re worth</li>
<li>Opportunity to ask anything you like to our pro players or Business Development Manager, Emily Nash</li>
<li>Plus great discounts on books for all who attend</li></ul><br />
<strong>Workshops are free and are taking place at the following locations:</strong> <br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Friday 10th Oct, 7:30pm</span> &#8211; <a href="http://www.causewaysofm.co.uk/" target="_self">Causeway School of Music, Coleraine</a><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Saturday 11th Oct, 11:30am</span> &#8211; <a href="http://www.ossiamusicschool.com/" target="_self">Ossia Music School, Belfast</a><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Saturday 11th Oct, 6:30pm</span> &#8211; <a href="http://www.keenanschoolofmusic.ie/" target="_self">Keenan School of Music, Dublin</a><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Sunday 12th Oct, 2pm</span> &#8211; <a href="http://voiceworksstudio.ie/" target="_self">Voiceworks Studios, Cork</a><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Monday 13th Oct, 10:30am</span> &#8211; <a href="http://www.waterfordacademy.ie/" target="_self">Waterford Academy of Music &amp; Arts, Waterford</a><br />
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<td><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=8174"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=8173" style="padding-left: 20px; padding-right: 40px" /></a></td></tr></tbody></table>
<h4>Register</h4>To register your place, email <a href="mailto:emilynash@rockschool.co.uk" target="_self">emilynash@rockschool.co.uk</a> with your name, telephone number and the venue you would like to attend:<br />
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Alternatively, you can call the Rockschool office on +44845 460 4747.<br />
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You can bring as many people as you like but please register to avoid disappointment.<br />
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We look forward to seeing you in October!</div></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/D7i51kGvVZU" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=246Host Rockschool Examinations at your Music Institutionhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/m9t73MgCtFI/newsarticle.aspx<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=8082" /> <br />
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<span style="font-size: 18pt;">Whether you run a rehearsal room, studio or music department we are interested in hearing from you.</span><br />
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We're looking for new exam centres throughout the UK to join our ever expanding list of <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/exam-centres" target="_self">official Graded Music Exam centres</a>. Whether you’re based at Lizards Point or John O’Groats - get in touch.<br />
<h4>How to apply</h4> If you would like your premises to be considered as an official Rockschool Graded Music Exam Centre <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=Private-Centre-Application-Form.pdf" target="_self">download</a> the centre application form and send it to us via <a href="https://mailto:centres@rockschool.co.uk" target="_self">email </a>or <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/contact-us" target="_self">post</a><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/m9t73MgCtFI" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=244Exam Information for Period C (Winter Period)http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/Mw1XZ15emZw/newsarticle.aspx<div style="position: static;">
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<div style="position: static;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Please make sure you've read and understood the exam information below before entering for your exam. Entry for <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/dates-and-fees" target="_self">Period C</a> closes on October 1st.&nbsp;</span><br />
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<h2>Vocals</h2> For all vocals exams candidates must bring a working microphone with them from Grade 4 onwards.
<h4>2014 Syllabus</h4> Candidates are free to use the new <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/2014vocals" target="_self">2014 Vocals Syllabus</a> in Period C 2014. <br />
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<strong>Please note: </strong>
<ul>
<li>Candidates must use the tests from the 2014 Vocals Syllabus</li>
<li>All Free Choice Pieces must be pre-approved by our <a href="mailto:freechoicepieces@rockschool.co.uk " target="_blank">syllabus advisor</a>&nbsp;before entry. Send yours to:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:freechoicepieces@rockschool.co.uk" target="_self">freechoicepieces@rockschool.co.uk</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>
<h4>Old Syllabus</h4>
<ul>
<li> Candidates can use the old vocals syllabus up until Period C 2015. &nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
<li>Candidates can use pieces from the old syllabus as Free Choice Pieces when using the 2014 Vocals Syllabus.</li></ul>
<h2>Guitar</h2> Acoustic guitar can only be used up until Grade 2. From Grade 3 onwards you must use an electric guitar through an amp.
<h2>Piano</h2> Not all of our <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/exam-centres" target="_self">exam centres</a>&nbsp;have a full 88-standard key piano (electronic or acoustic), so please check with your designated exam centre in case they can only offer a keyboard for the exam.
<h2>Drums</h2> We provide acoustic drum kits as standard at all exam centres. Candidates should therefore assume their exam will be sat on an acoustic drum kit. If you’d like to use your own electric kit, please mention this in the ‘<span style="font-style: italic;">additional notes</span>’ section of your entry and bring your kit with you on the day. <br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Please note for grades 6, 7 &amp; 8 playing an acoustic drum kit is mandatory.</span> </div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/Mw1XZ15emZw" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=2452014 Vocals Syllabus - OUT NOWhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/KfZgoAYLxzg/newsarticle.aspx<div style="position: static;">
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<div style="position: static;"><a href="https://www.musicroom.com/rockschool" target="_self"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=8009" /></a> <br />
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<span style="font-size: 18pt;">96 hit songs from the world's biggest recording artists for male and female singers.&nbsp;</span><br />
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We're excited to announce that&nbsp;the <a href="https://www.musicroom.com/rockschool" target="_self">2014-2017 Vocals Syllabus</a>&nbsp;is available to <a href="https://www.musicroom.com/rockschool" target="_self">buy online</a> and in all good <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/storelocator" target="_self">music shops</a> now!&nbsp;These brand new books will take over from the long standing vocals syllabus,&nbsp;<span style="line-height: 15.333332061767578px;">with album quality backing tracks, fact files and easy-to-follow separate vocal scores.</span>
<h2>2014 Vocals Books</h2> The <a href="https://www.musicroom.com/rockschool" target="_self">2014 Vocals Syllabus</a> is our best vocals syllabus yet, complete with album quality audio, separate vocals scores and piano and guitar parts to help with practice. <br />
<a href="https://www.musicroom.com/rockschool" target="_self"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=5980" /></a> <br />
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<h2>Artists</h2> The <a href="https://www.musicroom.com/rockschool" target="_self">2014 Vocals Syllabus</a>&nbsp;features some of the biggest recording artists from the past six decades. You can download the full track listing below. <br />
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<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=8010">2014 Vocals Syllabus Track Listing</a></strong><br />
(871KB, 1 page, .pdf)</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
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<h4>Female</h4>
<ul>
<li>Adele</li>
<li>Rihanna</li>
<li>Beyonce </li>
<li>Lady Gaga </li>
<li>Jessie J </li>
<li>Katy Perry </li>
<li>Katie Melua </li>
<li>Florence and The Machine</li>
<li>Taylor Swift</li>
<li>Lily Allen</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">&amp; Many More</span></li> </ul> </td>
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<h4>Male</h4>
<ul>
<li>Coldplay</li>
<li>Bruno Mars</li>
<li>David Bowie</li>
<li>Plan B</li>
<li>Led Zeppelin </li>
<li>Ed Sheran</li>
<li>James Brown</li>
<li>Foo Fighters</li>
<li>Daft Punk</li>
<li>Bob Marley</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">&amp; Many More</span></li> </ul> </td> </tr> </tbody></table>
<h2>Plus</h2><span style="font-weight: bold;">Fact files:</span> band and artist background information with recommended listening <br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Backing tracks:</span> high quality recordings for you to sing along to in your exam <br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Downloadable audio:</span> use your download card for easy access to your audio <br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Vocal scores:</span> easy-to-follow separate vocal scores <br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Piano and guitar parts:</span> piano notation and guitar chords included to help with your practice <br />
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<h4>Old Vocals Syllabus</h4> Don't worry if you're currently studying towards your vocals exam with the old syllabus. These books will be valid for another <span style="font-weight: bold;">two examination periods</span> (Period B 2015). If you're still confused about the changeover, <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/contactus/" target="_self">contact us</a> via email or on <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/facebook" target="_self">facebook </a>or <a href="https://www.twitter.com/rockschool" target="_self">twitter</a>. </div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/KfZgoAYLxzg" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=2412014 Vocals Launch Event - Sept 24thhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/ui1D78ZStns/newsarticle.aspx<a href="http://a.pgtb.me/vRg2JF" target="_self"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=6947" /> <br />
</a><br />
<span style="font-size: 18pt;"><br />
Join us for the exclusive launch of the new 2014 Vocals Syllabus, with live performances, special offers and event-only merchandise.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://a.pgtb.me/vRg2JF" target="_self">Tickets</a>: </span>&#163;15/free before Sept 14th<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Date:</span> 6.30pm, Wednesday 24th Septmeber<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Location:</span> Underbelly, 11 Hoxton Square, London, N1 6NU<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Age restrictions: </span>Over 18's only<br />
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<p>We'll be launching our brand new <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/2014vocals" target="_parent">2014 - 2017 Vocals Syllabus</a> in style this September with an exclusive launch event at <a href="http://www.underbellyhoxton.com" target="_parent">Underbelly</a>, Hoxton Square, London. Join us for this one-off event in the heart of London by registering your details on our dedicated <a href="http://a.pgtb.me/vRg2JF" target="_self">ticket page</a>.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Plus</h2>
<ul>
<li><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Performances by Kirsten Joy - The Voice</span></strong></li>
<li><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt;">&#163;5 off book voucher to spend on the night for every attendee&nbsp;</span></strong></li>
<li><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Q&amp;A: hints and tips on how to get the best possible grade</span></strong></li>
<li><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Free Rockschool goodie bag</span></strong></li>
<li><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Exclusive event-only merchanise available</span></strong></li>
<li><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt;">2014 vocals books available to buy on the night &nbsp;</span></strong></li></ul>
<h2>Kirsten Joy</h2>
<p>Kirsten featured on <a href="http://youtu.be/KoWLZ2iHdHc" target="_parent">'The Voice&nbsp;UK</a>', and has sung with Gary Barlow, Beverley Knight and performed in front of the Queen and supported Girls Aloud. <a href="http://youtu.be/KoWLZ2iHdHc" target="_parent">Check out</a> Kirsten in action below.</p><br />
<iframe width="710" height="400" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/KoWLZ2iHdHc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
<h2>Tickets</h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: bold;">The ticket price is &#163;15</span>. Register <a href="http://a.pgtb.me/vRg2JF" target="_self">here</a>&nbsp;<strong>before September 14th</strong> for free entrance. Tickets will sell out FAST,&nbsp;<a href="http://a.pgtb.me/vRg2JF" target="_self">grab a ticket now</a> to avoid disappointment.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<br />
</p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/ui1D78ZStns" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=242Hot Rock Level 4 Guitar Diploma - Out Now!http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/YWOmujUkRbo/newsarticle.aspx<a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01107415/details.html" target="_self"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=5808" /></a> <br />
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<span style="font-size: 18pt;">Hit Songs for Rockschool Performance Diplomas, college and university performances - or just rocking out!</span> <br />
<br />
We've been working hard to produce more resources for our Diploma candidates, and as of June 30th, we'll have a brand new <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01107415/details.html" target="_self">Hot Rock Guitar book</a> for Level 4 Diploma candidates, and pro level players. Your Level Diploma 4 book comes complete with the same great features as the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/hotrock" target="_self">Hot Rock&nbsp;grade books</a>;&nbsp;Fact Files, Walkthroughs and full sheet music and audio for each piece. <br />
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The <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/diplomas/performancediploma/levelfour.aspx" target="_self">Level 4 Performance Diploma</a> is worth 90 <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/generalinformation/qcfinformation/" target="_self">QCF credits</a>. It is fully accredited and is on the <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/aboutus/accreditation/" target="_self">European Qualifications Framework</a>.<br />
<h3>8 Reasons You'll Love Hot Rock Level 4 Diploma&nbsp;</h3> We think the Hot Rock Level 4 book is awesome, but don't just take our word for it...<br />
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<ol style="font-size: 12px; line-height:25px">
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">8 Diploma standard tracks &#8211; 8 world renowned artists </span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">TAB and Standard Notation</span> </li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">College and university friendly:</span>&nbsp;use for college and university performances</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Fact Files:</span> artist background information</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Walkthroughs:</span> in-depth guidance on every track</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Amp settings:</span> get the right tone for each track</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Downloadable audio:</span> via your download card </li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Learn by playing the music you love</span></li></ol><span style="font-weight: bold;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01107415/details.html" target="_self">Buy Online</a>&nbsp;</span>| <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01107415/details.html" target="_self"><span style="font-weight: bold;">View</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Track Listing</span></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <br />
<h3 style="margin-bottom: -5px">Rockschool Performance Diplomas</h3> <b>Professional Performance Qualifications.</b> <br />
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Rockschool Performance Diplomas are available at <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/diplomas/performancediploma/levelfour.aspx" target="_self">Level 4</a> and <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/diplomas/performancediploma/levelsix.aspx" target="_self">Level 6</a>, meaning that both offer degree standard achievements. Build a programme to suit your own playing style, selecting from Rockschool&#8217;s sizeable repertoire and adding other pieces of your own choosing if you wish.<br />
<h4>Performance Diploma overview</h4>
<ul>
<li><b>Unique:</b> Design your own performance programme to suit you as an artist</li>
<li><b>Performance focus:</b> Only one external exam at the end of the qualification, at a centre local to you</li>
<li><b>Key industry skills:</b> Promotion and business units prepare you for a career in the music industry </li>
<li><b>Ideal for entry into higher education:</b> Elevate yourself above the competition when applying for University places </li> </ul>The <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/diplomas/performancediploma/" target="_self">Performance Diploma </a>requires the candidate to show knowledge of all aspects of professional performance. They will also be expected to create a promotional portfolio demonstrating their ability to promote and present them self to a prospective fan base, using both traditional and web-based media.
<h4>Study at home in your own time</h4> Rockschool Performance Diplomas are all self-study-based, enabling you to fit the course in around your busy lifestyle. There&#8217;s no limit to the amount of time you can spend preparing for your Diploma, giving you as long as you like to make your first submission.
<h3>Learn More</h3>Grab full information on our <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/diplomas/performancediploma/" target="_self">Performance Diplomas</a>.&nbsp;<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/YWOmujUkRbo" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=240Are You Ready To Start A Rock Band?http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/ilxPpsKwwVs/newsarticle.aspx<br />
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<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01107414/details.html" target="_self"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=5781" style="padding-bottom: 20px" /></a></p>
<p></p><span style="font-size: 18pt;">Get your first taste of playing in a rock band with our brand new book for guitarists, bassists and drummers - Out Now!</span><br />
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We all dream of playing in a rock band like our heroes, writing that first rock anthem, the excitement of playing our first gig &#8211; even if it is just your mum and nan watching! <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01107414/details.html" target="_self">Play in a Rock Band</a> will give you the tools needed to follow in the footsteps of your rock heroes. <br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Play in a Rock Band features 10 pieces specially written for beginner musicians</span> (Entry level to Grade 3). Each track is arranged for guitar, bass and drums with individual scores and audio mixes for each band member. <br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Worried about what level you're at?</span> Every track in Play in a Rock Band is the same grade, so you&#8217;ll know that every band member is at the same level. <br />
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<a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01107414/details.html" target="_self">Get your first taste</a> of playing in a rock band now.&nbsp;<br />
<h3>10 Reasons You'll Love Play in a Rock Band</h3> We think <span style="font-weight: bold;">Play in a Rock Band</span> is awesome, but don't just take our word for it...
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<td width="20%"><a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01107414/details.html" target="_self"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=5737" style="padding-top: 15px; padding-right: 20px" /></a>&nbsp;</td>
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<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Full band scores: </span> full band scores make teaching groups easy</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Two tracks across five grades: </span> progress from Entry Level to Grade 3 </li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Graded parts: </span> every part in the track is the same grade </li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Band part booklets: </span> individual parts for all band members</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Downloadable audio: </span> use your download card for easy access to your audio</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Individual mixes: </span> instrument-specific audio for individual practice</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Extra parts: </span> additional keyboard and second guitar parts for six tracks </li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Free choice pieces: </span>perfect for use in Rockschool exams</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Range of styles: </span>play rock, reggae, indie, metal and pop punk</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Learn by playing the music you love</span> </li></ol> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Order now from</span>&nbsp;<a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01107414/details.html" target="_self">musicroom.com</a></td></tr></tbody></table></div>
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<h3>Teachers</h3> Are you looking for great rock and pop material to lead engaging group lessons? Let Play in a Rock Band <span style="font-weight: bold;">transform your group and individual lessons</span> with 10 full band tracks that your students will love.&nbsp;<br />
<ol style="font-size: 12px; line-height:25px">
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Use each of the band part booklets for individual or group tuition</span></li>
<li><b>Teach full, interactive group workshops with the additional keyboard and second guitar parts&nbsp;</b></li>
<li><b>Make group assessment easy with every instrument part at the same grade</b></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Explore a range of band styles with your students&nbsp;</span></li></ol></div>
<h3 style="margin-top: -15px;">Buy Play in a Rock Band</h3> Grab a copy of Play in a Rock band <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01107414/details.html" target="_self">online</a> or from your nearest <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/storelocator" target="_self">music shop</a>.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/ilxPpsKwwVs" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=239How To Play Root Notes For Smart Beginnershttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/sfQhhhKF2y4/newsarticle.aspx<iframe width="711" height="400" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/s4cGj1deFBQ" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
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<span style="font-size: 17pt;">In this lesson you will learn two notes and play basslines using a quarter-note rhythm</span> <br />
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<td class="Text"><b><u><a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=LetsRockBassSample.zip" target="_self">Download</a>&nbsp;</u></b><b><u><a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=LetsRockBassSample.zip" target="_self">Full Lesson</a></u></b><br />
(34MB, Audio, Video, Quiz &amp; Sheet Music Examples,.zip)</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<h3>Lesson One: Root Notes</h3> <strong>What you will learn:</strong>&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Two notes: E and C</li>
<li>Quarter-note rhythms</li>
<li>Root notes</li></ul>
<h4>Style Overview</h4>
<p>Rock is an interesting style of music for bass players because it offers lots of different ways to play the bass. In this style of music it is common to play with a pick (or plectrum) instead of the fingers. But don&#8217;t worry, either method will work fine. Most rock bands have a singer, one or two guitars, bass and drums. <a href="http://youtu.be/dpVUIwrNLoo" target="_blank">AC/DC</a>, <a href="http://youtu.be/5kqoUstkG0I" target="_blank">Led Zeppelin</a> and <a href="http://youtu.be/FQjZVdaTZOs" target="_blank">The Rolling Stones</a> are some of the most famous rock groups. The bass is important in rock because it provides a solid backing for the other instruments and makes powerful rhythms with the drums.</p>
<h4>Chords and Root Notes</h4> Many basslines in rock follow the chords and are based on root notes. Chords are made up of two or more notes and are usually played by guitars rather than bass. The root note is the most important note because the chord is named after it (e.g. the root of the E major chord is E). </td>
<td style="padding-left: 0px"> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flea_(musician)" target="_self"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=2575" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table>
<h3>Lesson Examples</h3>Get your quarter notes down with our lesson examples below. <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=LetsRockBassSample.zip" target="_self">Download</a> the full accompanying backing tracks and exercises <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=LetsRockBassSample.zip" target="_self">here</a>.&nbsp;<br />
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<h3>Performance Piece - 'Sheet Metal'</h3> Put your skills to the test by playing through your first metal track - 'Sheet Metal'. <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=LetsRockBassSample.zip" target="_self">Download</a> the backing track, sheet music and full video <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=LetsRockBassSample.zip" target="_self">here</a>.&nbsp;<br />
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<iframe width="710" height="400" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/ir2Wn6LRmbU" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
<h3>Lesson Quiz - Test Your Knowledge!&nbsp;</h3> Think you've mastered your first lesson in rock bass? <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/quiz/letsrock/bass/" target="_self">Take the test</a> and prove your knowledge with our quick music quiz below. Download the full quiz <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=LetsRockBassSample.zip" target="_self">here</a>.<br />
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/quiz/letsrock/bass/" target="_self">Take the Quiz</a></span> &gt;&gt;&nbsp;
<h3>Buy Let's Rock Bass</h3> If you enjoyed this lesson go grab yourself a full copy of the Let's Rock Bass book which includes over 1 hour of downloadable audio and video, 12 lessons in 6 different styles, and even more quizzes to perfect your knowledge.
<h3>Let's Rock Bass (Pre-Debut)</h3>
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<td> <img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/Books/Bass/LetsRockPreDebutBook.png" alt="Let's Rock Bass - Pre-Debut" width="147" height="194" style="padding: 0 20px 20px 0;" /><br />
<a class="preDebut" title="Let's Rock Bass (Pre-Debut) - Pages 6, 7" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/Books/Bass/Samples/LetsRockPreDebutPageSix.png"><img id="ViewSamples" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/Trans.gif" alt="" /></a> <a class="preDebut" title="Let's Rock Bass (Pre-Debut) - Pages 30, 31" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/Books/Bass/Samples/LetsRockPreDebutPageThirty.png"></a> <a class="preDebut" title="Let's Rock Bass (Pre-Debut) - Pages 36, 37" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/Books/Bass/Samples/LetsRockPreDebutPageThirtySix.png"></a> </td>
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<h5 style="padding-top:0;">Book Features</h5>
<ul>
<li><strong>Over 1 hour of downloadable video and audio content</strong></li>
<li><strong>Instrument quick guide</strong> - how it works and everything in-between!</li>
<li><strong>How to read music</strong> - learn how to read music, quickly and simply</li>
<li><strong>12 x lessons in 6 different styles</strong> - each lesson includes audio and video tuition</li>
<li><strong>6 pieces, 6 varying styles</strong> - put your skills to the test with 6 kick ass pieces</li>
<li><strong>Play</strong> - Rock, Pop, Indie, Metal, Hip-Hop and Country</li>
<li><strong>120 audio tracks</strong> - supporting audio for every musical example and piece</li>
<li><strong>Video lessons</strong> - on getting started and key exercises</li>
<li><strong>Quiz</strong> - put your skills to the test with the free quiz</li>
<li><strong>Dropcard</strong> - instantly download the accompanying audio and video hassle free!</li> </ul>
<h5 style="padding-top:0;">What You'll Learn</h5>
<ul>
<li>The basics of music notation &amp; your instrument</li>
<li>Rock, Pop, Metal, Country, Indie and Hip Hop</li>
<li>Simple basslines, riffs and arpeggios</li> </ul> <a href="/clickthrough.ashx?P=102">Buy from Musicroom</a> </td> </tr> </tbody></table><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/sfQhhhKF2y4" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=233Hot Rock Series - Updated for 2014 (Out Now)http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/Gcn0KcVd0Us/newsarticle.aspx<iframe width="711" height="400" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/thOZT5zajAk" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe> <br />
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<span style="font-size: 23px">Hot Rock - Hit Songs for Rockschool Exams, GCSE music or just rocking out!&nbsp;</span><br />
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<strong>With Rockschool's Hot Rock Series you can learn from some of the biggest names in rock</strong>, featuring eight massive tracks from the past six decades you'll be able to play along with your rock heroes - and for 2014 we've made them even better.<br />
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<h3>8 Reasons You'll Love Hot Rock</h3>
<ol style="font-size: 12px; line-height:25px">
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">8 of the best rock tracks</span> - <span style="font-weight: bold;">8 world renowned artists</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">TAB and Standard Notation</span> </li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">GCSE friendly:</span> schools can use for GCSE music </li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Fact Files:</span> artist background information</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Walkthroughs:</span> in-depth guidance on every track</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Amp settings (guitar only):</span> get the right tone for each track</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Downloadable audio:</span> via your download card </li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Learn by playing the music you love</span></li></ol></td>
<td style="padding-top:40px; padding-left: 10px"> <img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=1561" /> </td> </tr></tbody></table> <span style="font-weight: bold;">ORDER NOW:</span> <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/rockschool" target="_self">http://www.musicroom.com/rockschool</a></div>
<h3>Hot Rock - Updated For 2014</h3> For 2014 we&#8217;ve updated both Hot Rock Guitar &amp; Drums to make them more accessible and easier to use, this means:&nbsp;<br />
<h5>Brand new covers </h5>Every Hot Rock book cover has got a sweet new make over &#8211; check them out below. <br />
<h5>Slimmed down books</h5> We've removed the bulky full transcriptions of the songs, leaving you with the exam version of the piece (the important one) &#8211; this means we can make them a lot cheaper and lighter! Don't worry though, we haven't removed any of the nutritious Walkthroughs or Fact Files on the bands. <br />
<h5>New download card </h5>We've included our brand new download card used in <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=224" target="_self">Let&#8217;s Rock</a>,&nbsp;giving you quick access to your audio and&nbsp;removing the need for clumsy CDs.&nbsp;
<h3>Hot Rock Books</h3>
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<h4>Hot Rock Guitar Books</h4>
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<td style="padding-right: 19px"> <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01098609/details.html" target="_self"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=1551" /></a><br />
<strong><br />
HOT ROCK GUITAR GRADE 1</strong><br />
<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01098609/details.html" target="_self">Buy now</a></span>&nbsp;&gt;&gt;</td>
<td style="padding-right: 19px"> <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01098610/details.html" target="_self"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=1552" /></a><br />
<strong><br />
HOT ROCK GUITAR GRADE 2</strong><br />
<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01098610/details.html" target="_self">Buy now</a></span>&nbsp;&gt;&gt;</td>
<td style="padding-right: 19px"> <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01098611/details.html" target="_self"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=1553" /></a><br />
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HOT ROCK GUITAR GRADE 3</strong><br />
<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01098611/details.html" target="_self">Buy now</a></span>&nbsp;&gt;&gt;</td>
<td style="padding-right: 19px"> <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01098612/details.html" target="_self"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=1554" /></a><br />
<strong><br />
HOT ROCK GUITAR GRADE 4</strong><br />
<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01098612/details.html" target="_self">Buy now</a></span>&nbsp;&gt;&gt;</td>
<td> <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01098613/details.html" target="_self"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=1555" /></a><br />
<strong><br />
HOT ROCK GUITAR GRADE 5</strong><br />
<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01098613/details.html" target="_self">Buy now</a></span>&nbsp;&gt;&gt;</td> </tr> </tbody></table> </div>
<div style="padding-top: 20px">
<h4>Hot Rock Drums Books</h4>
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<td style="padding-right: 19px"> <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01098615/details.html" target="_self"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=1556" /></a><br />
<strong><br />
HOT ROCK DRUMS GRADE 1</strong><br />
<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01098615/details.html" target="_self">Buy now</a></span>&nbsp;&gt;&gt;</td>
<td style="padding-right: 19px"> <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01098616/details.html" target="_self"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=1557" /></a><br />
<strong><br />
HOT ROCK DRUMS GRADE 2</strong><br />
<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01098616/details.html" target="_self">Buy now</a></span>&nbsp;&gt;&gt;</td>
<td style="padding-right: 19px"> <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01098617/details.html" target="_self"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=1558" /></a><br />
<strong><br />
HOT ROCK DRUMS GRADE 3</strong><br />
<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01098617/details.html" target="_self">Buy now</a></span>&nbsp;&gt;&gt;</td>
<td style="padding-right: 19px"> <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01098618/details.html" target="_self"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=1559" /></a><br />
<strong><br />
HOT ROCK DRUMS GRADE 4</strong><br />
<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01098618/details.html" target="_self">Buy now</a></span>&nbsp;&gt;&gt;</td>
<td> <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01098619/details.html" target="_self"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=1560" /></a><br />
<strong><br />
HOT ROCK DRUMS GRADE 5</strong><br />
<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01098619/details.html" target="_self">Buy now</a></span>&nbsp;&gt;&gt;</td> </tr> </tbody></table> </div>
<h3>Using Hot Rock In Your Exam</h3>Rockschool's Hot Rock Series provides you with additional hit tunes to use in your Rockschool exam, which means you'll still need to grab your corresponding <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/books/" target="_blank">grade book</a>&nbsp;to sit your exam.&nbsp;You can pick <span style="font-weight: bold;">two pieces</span> from Hot Rock to play in your <a id="hypWhatsTheDifference" rel="popup standard 700 280 noicon" href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/enteronline/gradedmusicexams/popups/whatsthedifference.aspx">Grade Exam</a><img id="imgWebsitePopup" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/PopupIcon.png" alt="Open link in new window." style="height:13px;width:13px;" /> or <span style="font-weight: bold;">three</span> to play in your <a id="hypWhatsTheDifference" rel="popup standard 700 280 noicon" href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/enteronline/gradedmusicexams/popups/whatsthedifference.aspx">Performance Certificate</a><img id="imgWebsitePopup" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/PopupIcon.png" alt="Open link in new window." style="height:13px;width:13px;" /> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/JavaScript/Popup.js"></script><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/Gcn0KcVd0Us" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=236£5 Off All Rockschool Books This Saturday!http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/743abS-G4Xs/newsarticle.aspx<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/national-learn-to-play-day-2014/store-locator/" target="_self"><img title="National Learn To Play Day 2014" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1546" /></a></p><br />
<font size="20px"><span style="font-size: 20pt;">Get &#163;5 off all Rockschool books&nbsp;</span></font><span style="font-size: 27px;">in-store</span><font size="20px"><span style="font-size: 20pt;">&nbsp;this Saturday for National Learn To Play Day!</span></font><font size="6">&nbsp;</font><br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Offer:</span> &#163;5 off all Rockschool books (yes every book!)<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">When:</span>&nbsp;This Saturday (April 12) - Learn To Play Day only&nbsp;<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Where:&nbsp;</span><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/national-learn-to-play-day-2014/store-locator/" target="_self">Find a store</a><br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">We've gone mad!</span>&nbsp;To celebrate <a href="http://www.learntoplayday.com/" target="_blank">National Learn To Play Day</a>&nbsp;we're giving a <span style="font-weight: bold;">HUGE&nbsp;&#163;5 off all Rockschool books</span> for this Saturday only. To find out which stores are offering the deal click the 'find a store' link above.&nbsp;<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Remember! </span>The offer will only last for Learn To Play Day so get yourself into your local&nbsp;<a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/national-learn-to-play-day-2014/store-locator/" target="_self">Rockschool Stockist</a> and grab a deal while stock lasts!&nbsp;
<h4><br />
Learn To Play Day</h4>Now in its third year,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.learntoplayday.com/" target="_blank">National Learn To Play Day</a>&nbsp;takes place on Saturday 12 April 2014 and will see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.musicradar.com/news/guitars/national-learn-to-play-day-participating-stores-591386" target="_self">music stores</a>&nbsp;around the country host free lessons on a variety of instruments. <br />
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Head to the official Learn To Play <a href="http://www.learntoplayday.com/" target="_blank">site</a> to find out which stores are taking part.&nbsp;<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/743abS-G4Xs" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=235Win 2 Tickets To Leeds Festival 2014http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/sUoJJ_ZghYQ/newsarticle.aspx<br />
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<h6 class="NoTopGap"> <img id="imgInformation" src="/Resources/Images/InformationIcon.gif" alt="Information" style="height:14px;width:14px;" /> Information </h6>
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<p class="NoBottomGap">This competition has passed it's closing date so entries are no longer being accepted.</p> </div>
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<div class="InformationBottomRight"></div> </div> <br />
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<a href="http://a.pgtb.me/v6jCrn" target="_self"><img title="Win Tickets To Leeds Festival" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=1529" /></a> <br />
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<span style="font-size: 19pt;">We've teamed up with Leeds Festival to giveaway 2 weekend camping tickets for you and a friend - aren't we good to you? &nbsp;</span><br />
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So, how are you fixed for summer 2014? Fancy seeing some of the biggest and best bands in the world? Look no further, because we're offering one lucky winner the chance to win 2 weekend camping tickets to <a href="http://www.leedsfestival.com/" target="_self">Leeds Festival 2014</a>&nbsp;(22-24 August).&nbsp;
<h3>Line-up</h3> So far headliners include Sheffield indie rockers <a href="http://arcticmonkeys.com/" target="_self">Arctic Monkeys</a> and Californian pop/punk kings <a href="http://blink-182.com/" target="_self">Blink 182</a>. Visit the Leeds Festival <a href="http://www.leedsfestival.com/line-up" target="_self">website</a>&nbsp;for the <a href="http://www.leedsfestival.com/line-up" target="_self">full line-up</a> as it stands.&nbsp;
<h3>How to enter</h3>To be in with a chance of winning a pair of weekend camping tickets to Leeds Festival simply jump&nbsp;over to the&nbsp;<a href="http://a.pgtb.me/v6jCrn" target="_self">competition page</a> on Facebook and answer the question given, or&nbsp;Retweet the <a href="https://twitter.com/Rockschool/status/443332689706250240" target="_self">competition post</a> on Twitter. <br />
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<div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Terms &amp; Conditions<br />
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<div>1. The competition ends on Sunday 23rd March 2014 - entrants will be contacted on Facebook or Twitter directly or via the email address provided on the competition page</div>
<div>2. A winner will be selected at random and Rockschool's decision is final.</div>
<div>3. The prize is for a pair of standard Leeds Festival weekend camping tickets</div>
<div>4. Rockschool accepts no responsibility for any damage that may occur to the prize in transit.</div>
<div>5. The competition is not open to Rockschool staff, or family members.</div>
<div>6. By entering the competition you consent that Rockschool can publish you as a winner on the Rockschool site, Facebook and Twitter page.</div>
<div>7. Entrants under the age of 16 will need the consent of their parents or guardian.</div>
<div>8. Travel to the festival is not covered.&nbsp;</div>
<div>9. Tickets are not for resale</div>
<div>10. The chosen winner will be sent their tickets within 2 weeks of the festival start date by Festival Republic
<div>11. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook or Twitter. You are providing your information to Rockschool and Festival Republic not to Facebook or Twitter. The information you provide will only be used to contact the winner and send you further awesome information on the festival. </div></div></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/sUoJJ_ZghYQ" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=232National Learn To Play Day 12 April 2014http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/djstAEIKsfk/newsarticle.aspx<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.learntoplayday.com/" target="_self"><img title="National Learn To Play Day 2014" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=1526" /></a></p><br />
<span style="font-size: 18pt;">Get a free music lesson at your local music shop on Saturday 12 April for National Learn To Play Day</span><br />
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Now in its third year, National Learn To Play Day takes place on Saturday 12 April 2014 and will see <a href="http://www.musicradar.com/news/guitars/national-learn-to-play-day-participating-stores-591386" target="_self">music stores</a> around the country host free lessons on a variety of instruments. <br />
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Organised by UK instrument charity <a href="http://www.musicforall.org.uk/" target="_self">Music For All</a>, last year's event saw over 100 stores get involved and there's already a <a href="http://www.musicradar.com/news/guitars/national-learn-to-play-day-participating-stores-591386" target="_self">huge list of stores</a> signed up for this year's National Learn To Play Day.<br />
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Find your nearest store <a href="http://www.musicradar.com/news/guitars/national-learn-to-play-day-participating-stores-591386" target="_self">here</a>.<br />
<h3>Book Offers</h3> To celebrate National Learn to Play Day we're giving <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=235" target="_self">&#163;5 off all Rockschool books</a>. So get yourself into your local store this Saturday and grab a deal while stock lasts! <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/national-learn-to-play-day-2014/store-locator/" target="_self">Find a store</a>.
<h3>Jools Holland Video Message</h3>A video message about Learn to Play Day April 12th 2014 from patron, Jools Holland. &nbsp;<br />
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<iframe width="710" height="400" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/hWIr9GoZ91I" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
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</h3><br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/djstAEIKsfk" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=231Let's Rock Drums: How To Rock Out On The Snare Drumhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/P5stYNossms/newsarticle.aspx<iframe width="710" height="400" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/S57y6H7VR_M" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
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<span style="font-size: 17pt;">In your first lesson we'll show you how to rock out on the snare drum with your right and left hands.</span> <br />
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<td class="Text"><b><u><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1504" target="_self">Full Lesson Download</a></u></b><br />
(47.6MB, Audio, Video, Quiz &amp; Sheet Music Examples,.zip)</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<h3>Lesson One: Rock Drums&nbsp;</h3> <strong>What you will learn:</strong>
<ul>
<li>Snare drum notation</li>
<li>Quarter notes </li>
<li>Drumming with both hands</li></ul>
<h4>Style Overview</h4>Rock music began in the 1960s and is known for its loud guitars and powerful drum beats. <a href="http://youtu.be/edPEBB6VjRQ" target="_self">Led Zeppelin</a>, <a href="http://youtu.be/pAgnJDJN4VA" target="_self">AC/DC</a> and <a href="http://youtu.be/SBjQ9tuuTJQ" target="_self">Foo Fighters</a> are some of the most famous rock groups. The basic rock beat is usually the first beat that any new drummer will learn. Most rock beats use three parts of the drum kit: hi-hat, bass drum and snare drum. In this lesson you will play quarter notes on the snare. Quarter notes divide the bar into four equal parts and are counted &#8220;1 2 3 4&#8221;. This count is also known as the pulse.
<h4>Drumming With Both Hands</h4> It is important to practise drumming with both hands from the beginning. This will help you to balance the drums and keep good timing. (Balancing the drums means playing each part of the drum kit with the same volume, so one part isn't louder than another.) The three main ways of playing with your hands are introduced here. Your first lesson will show how to rock out on the snare drum with your right and left hands.&nbsp;</td>
<td style="padding-left: 0px"> <img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=1500" /></td> </tr> </tbody></table>
<h3>Lesson Examples</h3>Get your single stroke, double stroke and paradiddles down with our lesson examples below. Download the full accompanying backing tracks and exercises <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1504" target="_self">here</a>.&nbsp;<br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1501" /> <br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1502" /> <br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1503" /> <br />
<h3>Performance Piece - 'The Dogg'</h3> Put your skills to the test by playing through your first Hip-Hop track - 'The Dogg'. <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1504" target="_self">Download</a> the backing track, sheet music and full video <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1504" target="_self">here</a>.&nbsp;<br />
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<iframe width="710" height="400" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/DvOd0ORiMYs" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
<h3><br />
Lesson Quiz - Test Your Knowledge!&nbsp;</h3> Think you've mastered your first lesson in rock drums? <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/quiz/letsrock/drums/" target="_self">Take the test</a> and prove your knowledge with our quick music quiz below. Download the full quiz <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1504" target="_self">here</a>.<br />
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/quiz/letsrock/drums/" target="_self">Take the Quiz</a></span> &gt;&gt;&nbsp;
<h3>Buy Let's Rock Drums</h3> If you enjoyed this lesson go grab yourself a full copy of the Let's Rock Drums book which includes over 1 hour of downloadable audio and video, 12 lessons in 6 different styles, and even more quizzes to perfect your knowledge.
<h3>Let's Rock Drums (Pre-Debut)</h3>
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<td> <img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/Books/Drums/LetsRockPreDebutBook.png" alt="Let's Rock Drums - Pre-Debut" width="147" height="194" style="padding: 0 20px 20px 0;" /><br />
<a class="preDebut" title="Let's Rock Drums (Pre-Debut) - Pages 6, 7" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/Books/Drums/Samples/LetsRockPreDebutPageSix.png"><img id="ViewSamples" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/Trans.gif" alt="" /></a> <a class="preDebut" title="Let's Rock Drums (Pre-Debut) - Pages 14, 15" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/Books/Drums/Samples/LetsRockPreDebutPageFourteen.png"></a> <a class="preDebut" title="Let's Rock Drums (Pre-Debut) - Pages 34, 35" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/Books/Drums/Samples/LetsRockPreDebutPageThirtyFour.png"></a> </td>
<td>
<h5 style="padding-top:0;">Book Features</h5>
<ul>
<li><strong>Over 1 hour of downloadable video and audio content</strong></li>
<li><strong>Instrument quick guide</strong> - how it works and everything in-between!</li>
<li><strong>How to read music</strong> - learn how to read music, quickly and simply</li>
<li><strong>12 x lessons in 6 different styles</strong> - each lesson includes audio and video tuition</li>
<li><strong>6 pieces, 6 varying styles</strong> - put your skills to the test with 6 kick ass pieces</li>
<li><strong>Play</strong> - Rock, Pop, Indie, Metal, Hip-Hop and Country</li>
<li><strong>120 audio tracks</strong> - supporting audio for every musical example and piece</li>
<li><strong>Video lessons</strong> - on getting started and key exercises</li>
<li><strong>Quiz</strong> - put your skills to the test with the free quiz</li>
<li><strong>Dropcard</strong> - instantly download the accompanying audio and video hassle free!</li> </ul>
<h5 style="padding-top:0;">What You'll Learn</h5>
<ul>
<li>The basics of music notation &amp; your instrument</li>
<li>Rock, Pop, Metal, Country, Indie and Hip Hop</li>
<li>Simple phrases, beats, and fills</li> </ul> <a href="/clickthrough.ashx?P=103">Buy online now</a></td> </tr> </tbody></table><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/P5stYNossms" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=230Let's Rock Guitar: How To Play Riffs & Melodieshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/_uXXO1WGNK0/newsarticle.aspx<iframe width="710" height="400" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/gcbiR-19BCw" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
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<span style="font-size: 17pt;">In this first lesson we'll show you how to rock out while playing riffs using simple rhythms.</span> <br />
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<td class="Icon"><img id="ZipIconGuitarGradeThree" class="Zip" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/IconZip.gif" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><b><u><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1439" target="_self">Full Lesson Download</a></u></b><br />
(5.32MB, Audio, Video, Quiz &amp; Sheet Music Examples,.zip)</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<h3>Lesson One: Rock Guitar</h3> <strong>What you will learn:</strong>
<ul>
<li>Two notes: E &amp; G</li>
<li>Basic riffs &amp; Melodies </li>
<li>Half &amp; quarter notes</li></ul>
<h4>Style Overview</h4>Rock is one of the most popular styles of guitar music. A rock band usually has a singer, one or two guitarists, a bass player and a drummer. The guitarist will often change the sound of their guitar by using the controls on their amp to produce distortion. This helps give the rock band its loud, powerful sound. <a href="http://youtu.be/edPEBB6VjRQ" target="_blank">Led Zeppelin</a>, <a href="http://youtu.be/pAgnJDJN4VA" target="_blank">AC/DC </a>and <a href="http://youtu.be/SBjQ9tuuTJQ" target="_blank">Foo Fighters</a> are three famous rock groups. Although distorted guitars are a feature of rock music, all the examples found in this lesson can be played on any type of guitar using any sound.
<h4>Riffs &amp; Melodies</h4> A riff is a short, repeated phrase. Riffs are used in lots of guitar music, especially rock, pop, blues and metal. Songs in these styles are often built on one or two memorable riffs. Melodies are musical phrases that are longer than riffs and are usually sung by a vocalist or played by a lead instrument like the guitar. This lesson introduces riffs. </td>
<td style="padding-left: 10px"> <img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1429" /></td> </tr> </tbody></table>
<h3>Lesson Examples</h3> Start playing the basics of rock guitar with our lesson examples below. Download the full accompanying backing tracks and exercises <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1439" target="_self">here</a>.&nbsp;<br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1430" /> <br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1432" /> <br />
<h3>Performance Piece - 'Rock City'</h3> Put your skills to the test by playing through your first rock track - 'Rock City'. <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1439" target="_self">Download</a> the backing track, sheet music and full video <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1439" target="_self">here</a>.&nbsp;<br />
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<iframe width="710" height="400" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/OBLVoU6TT3o" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
<h3><br />
Lesson Quiz - Test Your Knowledge!&nbsp;</h3> Think you've mastered your first lesson in rock guitar? <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/quiz/letsrock/guitar/" target="_self">Take the test</a> and prove your knowledge with our quick music quiz. Only then can you move onto your next lesson. Download the full quiz <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1439" target="_self">here</a>.<br />
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/quiz/letsrock/guitar/" target="_self">Take the Quiz</a></span> &gt;&gt;&nbsp;<br />
<h3>Buy Let's Rock Guitar</h3> If you enjoyed this lesson go grab yourself a full copy of the Let's Rock guitar book which includes over 1 hour of downloadable audio and video, 12 lessons in six different styles, and an instrument guide to help you get started.<br />
<h4><br />
Let's Rock Guitar (Pre-Debut)</h4>
<table style="margin-top:10px;">
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<td> <img src="/Resources/Images/Books/Guitar/LetsRockPreDebutBook.png" alt="Let's Rock Guitar - Pre-Debut" width="147" height="194" style="padding: 0 20px 20px 0;" /><br />
<a class="preDebut" title="Let's Rock Guitar (Pre-Debut) - Pages 6, 7" href="/Resources/Images/Books/Guitar/Samples/LetsRockPreDebutPageSix.png"><img id="ViewSamples" src="/Resources/Images/Trans.gif" alt="" /></a> <a class="preDebut" title="Let's Rock Guitar (Pre-Debut) - Pages 16, 17" href="/Resources/Images/Books/Guitar/Samples/LetsRockPreDebutPageSixteen.png"></a> <a class="preDebut" title="Let's Rock Guitar (Pre-Debut) - Pages 28, 29" href="/Resources/Images/Books/Guitar/Samples/LetsRockPreDebutPageTwentyEight.png"></a> </td>
<td>
<h5 style="padding-top:0;">Book Features</h5>
<ul>
<li><strong>Over 1 hour of downloadable video and audio content</strong></li>
<li><strong>Instrument quick guide</strong> - how it works and everything in-between!</li>
<li><strong>How to read music</strong> - learn how to read music, quickly and simply</li>
<li><strong>12 x lessons in 6 different styles</strong> - each lesson includes audio and video tuition</li>
<li><strong>6 pieces, 6 varying styles</strong> - put your skills to the test with 6 kick ass pieces</li>
<li><strong>Play</strong> - Rock, Pop, Indie, Metal, Hip-Hop and Country</li>
<li><strong>120 audio tracks</strong> - supporting audio for every musical example and piece</li>
<li><strong>Video lessons</strong> - on getting started and key exercises</li>
<li><strong>Quiz</strong> - put your skills to the test with the free quiz</li>
<li><strong>Dropcard</strong> - instantly download the accompanying audio and video hassle free!</li> </ul>
<h5 style="padding-top:0;">What You'll Learn</h5>
<ul>
<li>The basics of music notation &amp; your instrument</li>
<li>Rock, Pop, Metal, Country, Indie and Hip Hop</li>
<li>Simple chords, melodies and riffs</li> </ul> <a href="/clickthrough.ashx?P=101">Buy online now</a></td> </tr> </tbody></table><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/_uXXO1WGNK0" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=228Join Us At The Music Education Expo 2014 Feb 7-8http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/TtIPW-LLGhY/newsarticle.aspx<iframe width="710" height="400" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/BHw31uI1DSY" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; color: #666666;">The Music Education Expo is the UK&#8217;s largest free exhibition and professional development conference for anyone who teaches music.</span><br />
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<b>Music Education Expo</b> is the UK&#8217;s largest conference and exhibition for anyone involved in music education, whether you are a classroom teacher or flute teacher, a hub leader or university lecturer. Spanning two days, the event will offer you the chance to attend over <a href="http://www.musiceducationexpo.co.uk/conference/"><span class="s1">50 seminars, workshops and debates</span></a>, the chance to meet and <a href="http://www.musiceducationexpo.co.uk/exhibitor-list/"><span class="s1">browse the services of over 150 exhibitors</span></a>, and the chance to network with over 2,500 of your peers. An essential experience for any music educator.<br />
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<p></p>Taking place at the London&#8217;s Barbican Centre <a href="http://www.musiceducationexpo.co.uk/" target="_blank">Music Education Expo 2014</a> will feature a wide range of lively professional development sessions, each covering a different aspect of teaching music. Delivering paid-for quality without the price tag, these sessions will provide attendees with a host of effective teaching ideas, introduce them to the latest developments in music education, and gave them access to some influential speakers from the world of music education. Click <a href="http://www.musiceducationexpo.co.uk/conference-programme/" target="_blank">here</a> to browse the 2014 conference programme.<br />
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<h4>Where To Find Us!</h4>The Rockschool team will be there both days at <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=1413" target="_self">stand C25</a> where we'll be giving&nbsp;advice and guidance on all of our qualifications, and&nbsp;offering special discounts across all our titles. <a href="http://www.onlineregistration.co.uk/cgi-bin/reg.pl?showdir=music/14&formname=regmusic" target="_blank">Entrance</a> is completely free, so don't miss out! &nbsp;<br />
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<a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=1413" target="_self"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1415" /></a><em>Click to view larger image</em><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/TtIPW-LLGhY" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=227Help Rockschool Reach 10,000 Likes To WIN Prizeshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/GhRsK-jHevc/newsarticle.aspxWe want to inspire and train more musicians to play the music they want to play! That's why we need your help in reaching 10,000 Facebook likes - don't worry though we'll be giving away prizes to make it worthwhile! <br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">9,500</span> likes we'll be giving away a fantastic Rockschool goodie bag with poster, bag, mug, pen and pick included </li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">10,000 likes</span> we'll be giving away a Ashton guitar amp, bass amp, or a brick (of 12) of Vic Firth sticks </li></ul>
<h4>How to enter</h4>To enter, simply like and share the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151827011936821&set=a.239663871820.146787.137412866820&type=1" target="_self">competition post</a> directly from our <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/facebook" target="_self">facebook page</a>.&nbsp;<br />
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<div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Terms &amp; Conditions</span></div>
<div>1. The competition will close once the Rockschool facebook page reaches 10,000 likes (entrants will be contacted on facebook. directly or via the email address provided on the competition page.&nbsp;</div>
<div>2. A winner will be selected at random &amp; Rockschool's decision is final.</div>
<div>3. The prize is for a Rockschool goodie bag, including a pen, poster, guitar pick and mug (9,500likes). Ashton guitar amp, bass amp, or brick of sticks (10,000 likes).</div>
<div>4. Rockschool accepts no responsibility for any damage that may occur to the prize in transit.</div>
<div>5. One entry per person.</div>
<div>6. The competition is not open to Rockschool staff, or family members.</div>
<div>7. By entering the competition you consent that Rockschool can publish you as a winner on the Rockschool site, Facebook page and Twitter page.</div>
<div>8. Entrants under the age of 16 will need the consent of their parents or guardian.</div>
<div>9. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook. You are providing your information to Rockschool and not to Facebook. The information you provide will only be used to contact you if you're a winner.</div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/GhRsK-jHevc" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=226Let's Rock - Start Playing Now!http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/n4uzQC-OrmA/newsarticle.aspx<br />
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<span style="font-size: 17pt;">Let's Rock is your starting point for Guitar, Bass and Drums. Learn the essentials so you can get seriously good, seriously fast.</span> <br />
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At Rockschool we want to make learning a musical instrument, practical, flexible and fun. Forget about stuffy tuition books and tedious lessons - Rockschool is here to help with&nbsp;Let&#8217;s Rock. Each book will take you through&nbsp;the basics of <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=228" target="_self">guitar</a>, <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=233" target="_self">bass</a> and <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=230" target="_self">drums</a>, so you can master the essentials even before you've had your first lesson.<br />
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If you&#8217;ve just bought your instrument and have no idea where to start, Let&#8217;s Rock is the book for you. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Learn the basics so you can get seriously good, seriously fast</span>.&nbsp;<br />
<h3>Book Features</h3>In each book you will find everything you need to get yourself set up and started playing, including: &nbsp;<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold; font-size: 10pt;">Over 1 hour of downloadable video and audio content</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold; font-size: 10pt;">Instrument quick guide -</span><span style="font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp;what everything's called, how it works and everything in-between! </span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold; font-size: 10pt;">How to read music</span><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> - learn how to read music quickly and simply </span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold; font-size: 10pt;">12x lessons in 6 different styles&nbsp;</span><span style="font-size: 10pt;">&#8211; each lesson includes audio and video tuition</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold; font-size: 10pt;">6 pieces, 6 varying styles</span><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> &#8211; put your skills to the test with 6 kick ass pieces </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-weight: bold;">Play - Rock, Pop, Indie, Metal, Hip Hop and Country</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold; font-size: 10pt;">120 audio tracks</span><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> &#8211; supporting audio for every musical example and piece </span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold; font-size: 10pt;">Video lessons </span><span style="font-size: 10pt;">&#8211; on getting started and key techniques</span></li><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> </span>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold; font-size: 10pt;">Quiz </span><span style="font-size: 10pt;">&#8211; put your skills to the test with the interactive quizzes</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold; font-size: 10pt;">Dropcard </span><span style="font-size: 10pt;">&#8211; instantly download the accompanying audio and video hassle free!</span></li></ul><a href="http://ow.ly/re40K" target="_blank">Buy&nbsp;Let's Rock Guitar</a> | <a href="http://ow.ly/re4Gg" target="_self">Buy Let's Rock Bass</a> | <a href="http://ow.ly/re4EZ" target="_self">Buy Let's Rock Drums</a>&nbsp;
<h3>Book Samples</h3> Click on the book image below to view the samples.<br />
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<td><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1393&O=1"><img title="View Guitar Samples" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1390" width="225" height="300" style="padding-right: 15px" /><br />
</a><span style="font-weight: bold;">LET'S ROCK GUITAR</span><br />
<a href="http://ow.ly/re40K" target="_self">Buy online now</a>&nbsp;&gt;&gt;</td>
<td><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1394&O=1"><img title="View Bass Samples" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1391" width="225" height="300" style="padding-right: 15px" /></a><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">LET'S ROCK BASS</span><br />
<a href="http://ow.ly/re4Gg" target="_self">Buy online&nbsp;now</a>&nbsp;&gt;&gt;</td>
<td><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1395&O=1"> <img title="View Drum Samples" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1392" width="225" height="300" /></a><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">LET'S ROCK DRUMS</span><br />
<a href="http://ow.ly/re4EZ" target="_self">Buy online now</a>&nbsp;&gt;&gt;</td></tr> </tbody></table>
<h3>Great For Teachers &amp; Students</h3> Let&#8217;s Rock is perfect for both teachers and students.
<h4>Students</h4> Let&#8217;s Rock is for anyone who wants to pick up the guitar, bass or drums. Each book comes with everything you need to get started on your instrument and gives you all the skills needed to start studying for your Debut exam with Rockschool. <br />
<h4>Teachers</h4> Let&#8217;s Rock is perfect for school and peripatetic teachers to use with students. Each book comes with teacher&#8217;s notes and rating system at the end of each lesson so you can give meaningful feedback to your students.
<h3>Let's Rock Lessons</h3> Get stuck into Let's Rock now, with our free lessons for Guitar, Bass and Drums below.
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<h4>Let's Rock Guitar: How to play riffs &amp; melodies<br />
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</h4><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=228" target="_self"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=2579" /></a><br />
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In your first Let's Rock Guitar lesson we'll show you how to rock out while playing riffs using simple rhythms. <br />
<a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=228">Watch Now</a> </td>
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<h4>Let's Rock Bass: How to play root notes<br />
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</h4><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=233" target="_self"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=2580" /></a><br />
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In your first Let's Rock Bass lesson you will learn two notes and play basslines using a quarter-note rhythm.<br />
<a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=233">Watch Now</a></td>
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<h4>Let's Rock Drums: How to rock out on the snare drum<br />
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</h4><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=230" target="_self"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=2581" /></a><br />
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In your first Let's Rock Drums lesson we'll show you how to rock out on the snare drum with your right and left hands. <br />
<a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=230">Watch Now</a></td> </tr> </tbody></table>
<h3>What The Pros Are Saying</h3> We think Let's Rock is awesome, but don't just take our word for it...<br />
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<td> <a href="http://www.musicradar.com/author/chris-bird" target="_blank"><img title="Chris Bird, MusicRadar.com" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1386" style="padding-right: 15px" /> </a></td>
<td><em><br />
&quot;Let's Rock is a fantastic set of lessons that'll help beginner guitarists get to grips with the basics of essential popular guitar styles in next to no time. Rockschool's audio examples sound great and they're fun to play too. What more could you want?&quot;</em><br />
<br />
<strong> ~ Chris Bird (Total Guitar)</strong> </td></tr></tbody></table><br />
<br />
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td> <img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1387" style="padding-right: 15px" /></td>
<td> <br />
<em>&quot;This new Rockschool drum book is an exciting new way of learning the drums. It&#8217;s very simple, visual, lots of facts and great audio to play your rudiments and exercises along to - The perfect way of getting you to Debut Grade level.&quot;</em> <br />
<br />
<strong>~ Aaron Phillips (Drum Tutor)</strong> </td></tr></tbody></table><br />
<br />
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td> <img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1388" style="padding-right: 15px" /> </td>
<td> <em><br />
&quot;The academic rock world has been waiting for a product such as 'Let's Rock' for a long time. This is one of the most inspiring, innovative and fun ways to learn the basics of one of the band instruments.&quot;</em> <br />
<br />
<strong> ~ Noam Lederman (Drummer - The Voice Germany, Artful Dodger, Corinne Bailey Rae) </strong></td></tr></tbody></table> <br />
<br />
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td> <img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1389" style="padding-right: 15px" /> </td>
<td><em>&quot;There are a lot of beginner books available that skip past the absolute basics too quickly, meaning that young kids struggle when picking up an instrument for the first time. This book fills that void perfectly, and I can only wish this kind of thing was available when I was starting to learn!&quot;</em><br />
<br />
<strong>~ Stuart Clayton (Head of Bass at BIMM, Carl Palmer's bassist)</strong></td> </tr> </tbody></table>
<h3>Where Will Let&#8217;s Rock Take Me? </h3>Let&#8217;s Rock are&nbsp;<span style="font-weight: bold;">pre-Debut (Entry Level</span>) books and will give you the foundation skills to get you started on your instrument. Once you've completed the book you&#8217;ll have the basics mastered and the skills necessary to start studying the guitar, bass or drums at <span style="font-weight: bold;">Debut (Entry Level)</span>.
<h3>Start Playing Right Now!</h3>Still not convinced? Download the complete first lesson for <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=228" target="_self">guitar</a>, <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=233" target="_self">bass</a> and <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=230" target="_self">drums</a> from the table below. Each download includes some of the best bits from the books so you can get rocking straight away.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<table id="Let's Rock Free Samples" class="GridView">
<tbody>
<tr><th class="LeftTop">
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: center;">Instrument</p></th><th class="centre">
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: center;">Media</p></th><th class="RightTop">
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: center;">Download</p></th></tr>
<tr class="Dark">
<td class="LeftLeft">
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1403" style="padding-top: 5px; padding-left: 5px" /></p></td>
<td class="centre">
<ul>
<li>1x Lesson (Audio, Video + Sheet Music)</li>
<li>1x Performance Piece (Audio + Sheet Music)</li>
<li>1x Quick Guide (Video)</li>
<li>1x Online Quiz&nbsp;</li></ul></td>
<td class="CenterRight">
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><img src="/Resources/Images/IconZip.gif" style="padding-top: 10px; padding-right: 5px" /> <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=LetsRockGuitarSample.zip" target="_self">Let's Rock Guitar Sample</a></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"> (31MB, .zip)</p></td></tr>
<tr>
<td class="LeftLeft">
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1404" style="padding-top: 5px; padding-left: 5px" /></p></td>
<td class="centre">
<ul>
<li>1x Lesson (Audio, Video + Sheet Music)</li>
<li>1x Performance Piece (Audio + Sheet Music)</li>
<li>1x Quick Guide (Video)</li>
<li>1x Online Quiz&nbsp;</li></ul></td>
<td class="CenterRight">
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><img src="/Resources/Images/IconZip.gif" style="padding-top: 10px; padding-right: 5px" /> <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=LetsRockBassSample.zip" target="_self">Let's Rock Bass Sample</a></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"> (34MB, .zip)</p></td></tr>
<tr class="Dark">
<td class="LeftLeft">
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1405" style="padding-top: 5px; padding-left: 5px" /></p></td>
<td class="centre">
<ul>
<li>1x Lesson (Audio, Video + Sheet Music)</li>
<li>1x Performance Piece (Audio + Sheet Music)</li>
<li>1x Quick Guide (Video)</li>
<li>1x Online Quiz&nbsp;</li></ul></td>
<td class="CenterRight">
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><img src="/Resources/Images/IconZip.gif" style="padding-top: 10px; padding-right: 5px" /> <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=LetsRockDrumsSample.zip" target="_self">Let's Rock Drums Sample</a></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"> (48MB, .zip)</p></td></tr>
<tr>
<td class="Footer" colspan="3"><br />
</td></tr></tbody></table><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/n4uzQC-OrmA" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=224Top Tips to Ace Your Examhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/NWuDdxtPGwg/newsarticle.aspx<div style="position: static;">
<div style="position: static;"><img align="left" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=434" width="74" height="82" style="padding-right: 17px; padding-left: 4px" /><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Everyone gets nervous before sitting an exam; it&#8217;s all part of being a musician. The important part is learning how to deal with these nerves, and to overcome them so you can play to the best of your ability. Here are some of our Top Tips to ace your exam.</span>
<h3><br />
<br />
Practicing</h3>
<ul>
<li><strong>Organise &amp; plan:</strong>&nbsp;Set out exactly what you&#8217;re going to work on in each session, whether its scales, chords or rudiments give yourself ample time to polish each section of your exam.</li><br />
<li><strong>Click:</strong> Practice playing to a metronome, this goes without saying. </li><br />
<li><strong>Posture</strong>: Check your posture, a lot of players can develop bad posture and technique due to the way they sit at/with their instrument. Practice playing in front of a mirror or record yourself to ensure you&#8217;re not slouching or developing bad technique. We always advise you seek professional advice from a qualified music teacher if you are unsure of your playing position. </li><br />
<li><strong>Bite size</strong>: Try to divide your chosen tunes into manageable chunks, practice each section slowly at first and work towards the required tempo. Always target the tricky bits first, the rest of the track will follow.</li> <br />
<li><strong>Diversity</strong>: Try to vary the styles you play in, this will help develop creativity and nurture good technique. </li> <br />
<li><strong>Confidence:</strong> Practice in-front of friends and family to boost your confidence, performance skills &amp; stage presence.&nbsp;</li></ul>
<h3>The Exam</h3>
<ul>
<li><strong>Be early:</strong> Arrive at least 10mins before your exam and you&#8217;ll feel a lot more comfortable before going into the exam room. You can also use this time to warm up, practice some simple finger or wrist exercises to get you in the right mind-set. </li> <br />
<li><strong>Get comfy:&nbsp;</strong>Make sure your're comfortable before you begin, change the stool/seat position if you have to &#8211; the examiner won&#8217;t mind! </li> <br />
<li><strong>Be confident:</strong> Remember the examiner's there to help, if you&#8217;ve got any questions before or during the exam, don&#8217;t be scared to ask.&nbsp;</li> <br />
<li><strong>Stay cool</strong>: Keep cool and hydrated, take some water with you into the exam. </li> <br />
<li><strong>Play with passion:</strong> The examiner see's hundreds of candidates every year, play with enthusiasm and love for your instrument and they're sure to take notice. </li> <br />
</ul>
<h3>General Musicianship Questions &amp; Ear Test</h3>
<ul>
<li><strong>Learn your instrument inside out:</strong> The examiner wants to see you know the required amount of knowledge about your instrument and the genres specific to each grade. Taking time to research all the <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/music/graded-music-exams/additional-information/resources/generalmusicianshipquestions/" target="_blank">general musicianship questions</a> and going that extra step will help you in achieving that top mark.&nbsp;</li> <br />
<li><strong>Get listening:</strong> Ask your teacher to play back specific notes and rhythms so you can get your ear used to hearing a range of melodies played in different rhythms and varying dynamics. </li> <br />
<li><strong>Take responsibility:</strong> If you're having trouble hearing the backing track don&#8217;t be afraid to ask your examiner to adjust the volume. Being able to hear each note clearly will help you with your recall.&nbsp;</li> <br />
<li><strong>It's OK to hum!</strong> Practice humming some of the aural test scales in your head before entering the exam room this will make it a lot easier when recalling the melody when asked. You can also hum along to the melody during the test.</li> </ul><br />
If you would like more help or advice before taking any Rockschool Exam. Please contact <a href="mailto:info@rockschool.co.uk">info@rockschool.co.uk</a>&nbsp;or call 0845 460 4747</div></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/NWuDdxtPGwg" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=1023 Things You Didn’t Know About Your Voicehttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/V4FTAgOwjew/newsarticle.aspx<span style="font-size: 13pt;">Do you ever feel like your voice won't do what you want it to, like it has a mind of its own? Well, you have more control over the function of your talking or singing voice than you think. Here are <b>3 things you&nbsp;</b></span><span style="font-size: 17px;"><b>didn't</b></span><span style="font-size: 13pt;"><b>&nbsp;know about your voice</b> from vocal expert Joshua Alamu...</span><br />
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<h4>&nbsp; 1.&nbsp;Air Flow</h4>
<p style="margin-left: 27px;">Whether you are doing voice warm ups, talking or singing, a singer must always be aware that they are in control of their airflow (breath control). You can decide how much air you want or need in a phrase. <br />
<br />
<strong>Try this exercise:</strong>hold up the corner of a hand tissue using your thumb and index finger. Position it half an inch away from your mouth and blow hard. Do the same thing again and blow so softly that the tissue barely moves. This is how much control you have over your airflow.<br />
<br />
It's also good practise to exercise your breath support skills to a stopwatch in order to develop more control of the whole breathing system. This will help you become more aware of your breath control, and also develop it whilst singing long phrases, doing riffs and runs or whilst sustaining notes for long amounts of time as a stylistic or entertaining feature of a song.<br />
</p>
<h4>&nbsp; 2.&nbsp;Vocal Folds </h4>
<p style="margin-left: 27px;">You are also in control of the vocal cord/fold closure (fold, is the more accurate term but cord is still used).<br />
<br />
In simple terms, the diaphragm naturally pushes air back up the body. This air coming up, then passes through your lungs and trachea and then engages with your vocal folds. If the vocal folds do not have adequate adduction (closure or good tension or compression) the air will pass through too freely and the resulting tone will usually sound breathy.<br />
<br />
When the vocal folds have adequate adduction (mobility), this creates a ripple effect or vibration of the vocal folds, which produces a sound wave. Singers have the ability to increase or decrease this vocal fold closure/compression, which has a direct effect on the quality of the tone that is produced. </p> </td>
<td width="28%" bgcolor="#003045" style="padding-right: 10px; padding-left: 20px;">
<h4><span style="color: #ffffff;">Joshua Alamu</span></h4><strong><span style="color: #3399ff;">Your vocal expect...</span></strong><br />
<br />
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1282" /> </p><br />
<span style="color: #ffffff;">Joshua Alamu is a professional vocal coach who has worked with some of the biggest names in British pop music. His clients, past and present, include <span style="font-weight: bold;">Westlife</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Joss Stone</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Will Young</span>. But Joshua is probably best known for his appearance as a vocal coach on the television shows &#8216;<a shape="rect" href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01nnfdd" target="_blank">The Voice</a>&#8217;, &#8216;Pop Idol&#8217; and &#8216;Just The Two Of Us.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<a shape="rect" href="http://www.joshuaalamu.com/" target="_blank">More from Josh </a><br />
<a shape="rect" href="https://twitter.com/madaboutthvoice" target="_blank">Josh on Twitter&nbsp;</a><br />
</span></td></tr></tbody></table>
<h4>&nbsp;&nbsp;3.&nbsp;Your Mouth</h4>
<p style="margin-left: 27px;">Basic sound is created at the vocal fold level; words are created with the mouth. Your vowels, the various shapes they can form and the way in which you use your consonants are completely in your control.<br />
<br />
Whether a vowel is wide or narrow is something that is within your realm of choice. Choose to tune or modify your vowels wisely so that you can tap into good resonance sweet spots, where it feels like you are producing effortless and dynamic tones when you are singing songs.</p> <br />
<h4>Myth Buster </h4> Remember that the diaphragm is a semi involuntary muscle and cannot be &quot;controlled&quot; in the sense that it does its function naturally without you having to think about it, a little bit like how your heart works.<br />
<br />
You do not have to tell your heart to pump blood around the body it just does it, however, if you hold your breath then, yes, the diaphragm ceases to function because there is no air to facilitate. <br />
<br />
That is why it is semi involuntary because there is somewhat a degree of 'control' in doing that, but if you pass out from holding your breath too long then the diaphragm will kick in and do what it does best: assist the breathing process!
<h4>What to Remember</h4> If you&#8217;re working with a voice coach or just simply going through a song, it's important to know that you are in control of these three functions and that they are not in control of you!<br />
<br />
When these three things are well coordinated, the resulting tone is usually what you want it to be:
<ul>
<li>Balanced</li>
<li>Stylistic</li>
<li>Dynamic</li>
<li>Well controlled</li>
<li>Well performed</li></ul> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Remember,</span> when even one of the three things is out of place, the resulting tone can usually be what you don't want it to be... the complete opposite of what you want to achieve. Ensure these three singing tips are in check before you warm up for vocal perfection.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/V4FTAgOwjew" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=220Beginner Guitar Lesson (Part 2): Introduction To Chordshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/xrSZjUZahxI/newsarticle.aspx<p style="padding-bottom: 30px"><iframe width="710" height="400" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/Dbq0mdkTOng" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p> <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1354" target="_self"><img title="Download Full Lesson Content" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1259" /></a><br />
<br />
<p style="font-size: 22px; color: #2c2c2c; padding-bottom: 15px; text-align: justify;">The second part of our free beginner guitar lesson, based on Debut grade&#8217;s &#8216;Helicopter&#8217;, gives candidates a solid introduction to chords and their uses. </p>
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<h3><span style="padding-top:4px">Helicopter B Section</span></h3>
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: justify;">The B section of &#8216;Helicopter&#8217; uses strummed E minor, D and A minor chords. These are full chords, not the cut down, three-note versions that offer an excellent introduction to chord work but are seldom used beyond the first few months of playing. If students find them hard to master at first you can encourage them with the knowledge that these are chords that will be used again and again for the rest of their musical careers. </p>
<h4>Fretting Chords</h4>
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: justify;">Fretting chords is a little harder than fretting single notes, but the same rules apply. Additionally, it is important to point out that the notes all have to ring out together. </p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Each finger should only be in contact with a single string</span>. </li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Only the fingertips should be in contact with the strings &#8211; nails and the fleshy underside of the fingers shouldn&#8217;t touch adjacent strings.</span></li></ul>
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><a href="http://youtu.be/Dbq0mdkTOng" target="_self">The video above</a>&nbsp;breaks the B section of &#8216;Helicopter&#8217; into two simple exercises. These should be mastered individually. Students should be made aware that isolating sections of music, making exercises of them and gradually building up the tempo with a metronome is a far more productive way of learning to play a piece than constantly playing through pieces from the start at full tempo.</p>
<h4>Teachers and Examiners</h4>
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: justify;">Teachers and examiners will be familiar with the results of this type of inadequate preparation &#8211; a piece with a solid, confident intro that subsequently fades in confidence. Making students aware of the symptoms &#8211; and the cure &#8211; should ensure that they are in good shape to tackle sudden stylistic changes like this one mid-piece. </p></td>
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<h4><span style="color: #ffffff; margin-top: 10px"><br />
Debut Guitar</span></h4><strong>
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/books/guitar/gradebooks/debut/" target="_self"><img title="Learn More" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1330" /></a> </p><br />
</strong>
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><strong> </strong><strong><span style="color: #ffffff;">'Helicopter' is one of six Performance Pieces featured in our </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #ffffff;"><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/books/guitar/gradebooks/debut/" target="_self">Debut Guitar book.</a></span></strong><strong><span style="color: #ffffff;"> The book also features all the Technical Exercises for Debut and in-depth guidance for </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #ffffff;"><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/gradedmusicexams/guitar/entrylevel.aspx" target="_self">Rockschool exams</a></span></strong><strong><span style="color: #ffffff;">.</span></strong></p><strong><br />
</strong></td></tr></tbody></table><br />
<h3>Lesson Examples for Students</h3>
<h4>Fig 1 | Basic changes at a slow tempo</h4> Once you have memorised each chord, can change easily between them and the strings are ringing freely, it is time to play them against a beat. Don't be tempted to rush into the rhythm and tempo dictated by the piece. Set a metronome to a tempo a good deal slower than the piece and practise the exercise above.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=1350"><img title="View Larger Image" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1351" /></a><br />
<br />
<h4>Fig 2 | Two changes per bar</h4> While Fig. 1 is very much a simple exercise that happens to use the same chords as the 'Helicopter' B section, Fig. 2 is taken from the piece itself, but has a simplified rhythm. Again, practice this with a metronome at a slower tempo before attempting this with backing track. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=1352"><img title="View Larger Image" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1353" /></a> <br />
<br />
<h4>Top Tip for Students</h4> If you have trouble getting the notes to ring out clearly, try adjusting the position of your thumb because this has a big impact on your hand&#8217;s mobility. Everyone&#8217;s hand is different, so there are no hard and fast rules. However, you should avoid pushing with the base of your thumb because this will limit your mobility and your hand will fatigue quickly.
<h3>Enter for a Rockschool Exam</h3> Want to put your skills to the test? Entering for a Rockschool <a id="hypWhatsTheDifference" rel="popup standard 700 280 noicon" href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/enteronline/gradedmusicexams/popups/whatsthedifference.aspx"><strong>grade exam</strong>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<strong>performance certificate</strong></a>&nbsp;couldn't be easier, simply <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/enteronline/options.aspx" target="_self">Enter Online</a> and follow the instructions given, your next exam period is <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/gradedmusicexams/additionalinformation/datesandfees/" target="_self">Period A </a>(1st February to 31st March). &nbsp;<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/xrSZjUZahxI" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=219Rockschool Appoints John Simpson as New CEOhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/PUsHtvf6Eus/newsarticle.aspx<span style="font-size: 16pt; color: #363636">Rockschool is delighted to announce the appointment of John Simpson as their new CEO. John, who takes up his post on 30th September 2013, replaces founder director Dr Simon Pitt who is standing down after more than ten years in the role.</span><br />
<br />
<img title="Rockschool CEO John Simpson" align="left" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1341" style="padding-right: 20px; padding-bottom: 10px" /> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Simon Pitt </span>said: &quot;I am very pleased that John is joining us at what is a critical point in our development. I have seen Rockschool grow from very small beginnings more than twenty years ago to being a highly influential player in pop music assessment in the UK and internationally. I have enjoyed working with a whole range of partners in developing our unique brand in the UK and internationally and I wish John every success in the role.&quot;<br />
<br />
Chairman and co-founder <span style="font-weight: bold;">Norton York</span> said: &quot;Simon is standing down as CEO but he is not leaving the company. He will be working closely with the Rockschool team to help develop new products and to act as an ambassador for the brand which has enormous potential. I wish to acknowledge Simon&#8217;s immense contribution over a decade or more as chief executive.&quot;<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">John Simpson </span>is an experienced CEO and has a background in international retail at B &amp; Q, WH Smith, The Jewellery Channel and British Bookshops and Stationers, as well as in global event management; most recently setting up and running a highly successful business organising global sailing rallies. John is a keen guitarist, singer and jazz trumpeter, and has played internationally in all kinds of ensembles. <br />
<br />
John commented:<span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">&nbsp;</span>&quot;I am delighted to be joining Rockschool and working with all our partners and associates, growing the Rockschool brand both here in the UK and internationally. Personally, I am looking forward to combining my love of music with this great brand and building on the success that Simon and the team have achieved so far.&quot;<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/PUsHtvf6Eus" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=218Beginner Guitar Lesson (Part 1): Mastering One-beat and Eighth Note Restshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/04WmC6BkZ-I/newsarticle.aspx<div style="margin-bottom: 30px"> <iframe width="710" height="400" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/YwLvr6_3tSE" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div> <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1335" target="_self"><img title="Download Lesson" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1259" /></a><br />
<br />
<p style="font-size: 22px; color: #2c2c2c; padding-bottom: 30px; text-align: justify;"> Rests are an essential part of playing music. Part 1 of our free beginner guitar lesson, based on Debut grade&#8217;s &#8216;Helicopter&#8217;, includes TAB and video to show to students</p>
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<h3><span style="padding-top:4px">Helicopter A and C Sections</span></h3>
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: justify;">The A and C sections of &#8216;Helicopter&#8217; consist of single-note melodies that are played in open position. It is said that, in music, what you don&#8217;t play is as important as what you do, which is where rests come in, giving melodies shape and producing more interesting rhythms. There are rests in several bars of &#8216;Helicopter&#8217;, so this is a good opportunity to focus on this aspect of guitar playing. </p>
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><br />
</p>
<h4>One-beat Rests<br />
</h4>
<p style="padding-bottom: 8px; text-align: justify;">One-beat rests should be counted in the same way as one-beat notes, but students should know it isn&#8217;t simply a matter of not playing anything during a rest. Instead they should learn to use their fingers, palms and even the sides of their hands to mute the strings and ensure silence when a rest is transcribed.</p>
<h4>Mastering Eighth Notes</h4>
<p style="padding-bottom: 8px; text-align: justify;">Bar 6 presents another technical challenge: eighth notes. Eighth notes are half a beat long, which means two of them would fit into the space of a quarter note (one beat long). They are counted by adding &#8216;&amp;&#8217; between normal onebeat counting&nbsp;<span style="font-weight: bold;">(i.e. &#8220;1 &amp; 2 &amp;&#8221;).</span></p>
<h4>Top Tip</h4>
<p style="padding-bottom: 10px; text-align: justify;">If your students find all the talk of rhythmic values and subdivisions of the whole note confusing, it may help to know that the rhythm of the sports chant &#8220;<span style="font-weight: bold;">2, 4, 6, 8, who do we appreciate</span>&#8221; almost exactly mimics the rhythm of a bar of quarter notes followed by a bar of eighth notes, which would be counted&nbsp;<span style="font-weight: bold;">&#8220;1, 2, 3, 4, 1 &amp; 2 &amp; 3 &amp; 4 (&amp;)&#8221;</span>.&nbsp;</p></td>
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<h4><span style="color: #ffffff; margin-top: 10px"><br />
Debut Guitar</span></h4><strong>
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/books/guitar/gradebooks/debut/" target="_self"><img title="Learn More" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1330" /></a> </p><br />
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<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><strong> </strong><strong><span style="color: #ffffff;">'Helicopter' is one of six Performance Pieces featured in our </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #ffffff;"><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/books/guitar/gradebooks/debut/" target="_self">Debut Guitar book.</a></span></strong><strong><span style="color: #ffffff;"> The book also features all the Technical Exercises for Debut and in-depth guidance for </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #ffffff;"><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/gradedmusicexams/guitar/entrylevel.aspx" target="_self">Rockschool exams</a></span></strong><strong><span style="color: #ffffff;">.</span></strong></p><strong><br />
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<h3>Lesson Examples</h3>
<h4><span style="padding-bottom: 15px">Fig 1 | Bars 2 &amp; 3<br />
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<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: justify;">The difference between the fourth beat of <span style="font-weight: bold;">bar 1</span> and the first beat of <span style="font-weight: bold;">bar 2</span> is that in <span style="font-weight: bold;">bar 1</span>&nbsp;candidates are still fretting a note to keep it ringing on, and during the rest in <span style="font-weight: bold;">bar 2</span>&nbsp;candidates should be actively muting the strings to ensure silence.&nbsp;</p><br />
<a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=1328"><img title="View Larger Image" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=1324" style="padding-bottom:10px" /></a>
<h4><span style="padding-bottom: 10px;">Fig 2 | Bar 6</span></h4>
<p style="padding-bottom: 15px; text-align: justify;">In <span style="font-weight: bold;">Fig. 2 </span>candidates simply have to slip an extra note between beats one and two, giving the rhythm <span style="font-weight: bold;">&#8220;1 &amp; 2, 3, (4)&#8221;</span>. Using '&amp;' in this way allows candidates to double the speed of the counting between any two beats. As rhythms become more complex they will find being able to count aloud as they play in this way is an invaluable skill.&nbsp;</p><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=1327"><img title="View Larger Image" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=1326" /></a>
<h3>Enter for a Rockschool Exam</h3> Want to put your skills to the test? Entering for a Rockschool <a id="hypWhatsTheDifference" rel="popup standard 700 280 noicon" href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/enteronline/gradedmusicexams/popups/whatsthedifference.aspx"><strong>grade exam</strong>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<strong>performance certificate</strong></a>&nbsp;couldn't be easier, simply <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/enteronline/options.aspx" target="_self">Enter Online</a> and follow the instructions given.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/04WmC6BkZ-I" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=216WIN a Blackstar ID:15 Amplifierhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/BX5cHYbnsTA/newsarticle.aspx<br />
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<h6 class="NoTopGap"> <img id="imgInformation" src="/Resources/Images/InformationIcon.gif" alt="Information" style="height:14px;width:14px;" /> Information </h6>
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<p class="NoBottomGap">This competition has passed it's closing date so entries are no longer being accepted.</p> </div>
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<br />
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">We know heading back to school can be tough, so we've teamed up with our friends over at Blackstar Amplification to give you the chance to WIN a fantastic ID:15!</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.blackstaramps.com">
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><img title="Learn More" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1314" /> </p> </a>
<h3>How To Enter</h3><span style="font-weight: bold;">To win this awesome prize simply head over to the Rockschool </span><a href="http://a.pgtb.me/tQSN3S" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: bold;">facebook page</span></a><span style="font-weight: bold;"> and answer the question given, or <a href="https://twitter.com/Rockschool/status/375203081052364800" target="_blank">Retweet</a> the <a href="https://twitter.com/Rockschool/status/375203081052364800" target="_blank">competition post</a> on the Rockschool twitter page.</span><br />
<br />
<h4>ID:15TVP A 15W Programmable Combo</h4>The <a href="http://www.blackstaramps.com/products/id15/" target="_blank">ID:15</a> boasts many of the same unique features and functionality as the larger ID models but in a compact combo format making it perfect for home recording and practising. The ID:Series represents the culmination of more than seven years technical research and development by the same team that designed Series One, Artisan and HT Venue. <br />
<br />
The unique controls allow you to custom design your own sound, store it and then have the confidence that the amp will perform in a live environment. By using the unique Voice control, patented ISF and patent-applied-for True Valve Power, these amplifiers allow unparalleled flexibility and ease of use, enabling you to in effect, design the sound in your head and deliver it live. LOUD as valve&#8482;. Individuality is power! <br />
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<h4>Product Features</h4>
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<td style="padding-right: 10px">
<p style="font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold">True Valve Power</p><br />
A patent-applied for feature that offers six distinctly different power valve responses - EL84, 6V6, EL34, KT66, 6L6, KT88. </td>
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<p style="font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold">6 Voice Channels</p><br />
The Voice control has six different channels - Clean Warm, Clean Bright, Crunch, Super Crunch, OD 1, OD 2. </td></tr>
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<td style="padding-right: 10px">
<p style="font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold"><br />
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<p style="font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold">EQ with patented ISF</p><br />
The patented ISF control works with the EQ controls to give you access to infinite new sound possibilities. </td>
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<p style="font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold"><br />
</p>
<p style="font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold">Built-In Effects Section</p><br />
The effects section delivers studio quality modulation, delay and reverb effects simultaneously that you can store with your sound.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
<h4>Product Demo</h4><br />
<iframe width="710" height="400" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/WUfQ5pMHKsc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
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<h4>Terms &amp; Conditions</h4>
<div><br />
</div>
<div>1. The closing date for the competition is 12 midnight, Sunday 15th September 2013 &amp; the winner will be contacted via the email address given (entrants via twitter will be contacted via direct message) within 7 days of the closing date.</div>
<div>2. Rockschool's decision is final</div>
<div>3. The prize is for a Blackstar ID:15 guitar amplifier&nbsp;</div>
<div>4. Rockschool accepts no responsibility for any damage that may occur to the prize in transit</div>
<div>5. One entry per person.</div>
<div>6. The competition is not open to Rockschool staff, or family members</div>
<div>7. By entering the competition you consent that Rockschool can publish you as a winner on the Rockschool site, Facebook page and Twitter page</div>
<div>8. Entrants under the age of 16 will need the consent of their parents or guardian</div>
<div>9. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook. You are providing your information to Rockschool and not to Facebook. The information you provide will only be used to contact you if you're a winner.</div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/BX5cHYbnsTA" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=215Vocals Masterclass Part 4: Fine-tuning a Performancehttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/uQPVPD1s7m4/newsarticle.aspx<iframe width="710" height="400" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/Hck0gHa3Fts" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
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<a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1303" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1259" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 16pt;">Voice coach Joshua Alamu&#8217;s masterclass concludes with a guide to fine-tuning a vocal performance. Read his tips on how to boost a singers confidence and turn a good vocal performance into an excellent one!</span><br />
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<td width="72%" style="padding-right: 20px"> In this, my last video lesson, I'm working with singer Martina Borg to fine-tune her vocal performance of the song &#8216;Mama Knows Best&#8217; by Jessie J. The goal of this exercise is to give a vocalist confidence in their vision of the song (how they &#8216;see&#8217; it sounding vocally). It should prepare them to perform the song with skill and enjoyment.<br />
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<h4>Finessing a vocal performance</h4>Finessing a vocal performance is the final phase before the show, audition, exam or recording session. This involves a good amount of repetition, making sure every vocal expression is executed skillfully, emotionally and confidently. Fine-tuning the performance is about helping a singer to become proficient in all areas &#8211; both technical and stylistic &#8211; until their skill is unconscious. <br />
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&#8216;Unconscious competence&#8217; is when the singer has had so much practice that the song has become second nature and can be performed easily. As a result, the song can be sung while executing another task, such interacting with an audience or simply having fun on stage. <br />
<h4>Isolation practice</h4>Isolation practice is an effective way of finessing a song. This might be a specific place in the song that the singer finds vocally challenging (the bridge for instance, where there might be a series of climatic notes). Through isolation practice you simply isolate that particular part of the song and, with your guidance and instruction, the vocalist works on it until you can hear the desired improvement.&nbsp;<br />
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Once you are satisfied that the singer&#8217;s practice is developing into competent delivery, it&#8217;s time to put what they have practised into context. Go back two to four bars in the song and instruct the vocalist to start from this point, singing into the same isolated section that they rehearsed. You may even want to try going from the top of the song into that section in order to develop the singer&#8217;s stamina, coordination and technique. As teachers our job is to help monitor this fine-tuning process until the singer is performing the song to the best of their ability. <br />
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<td width="28% " bgcolor="#003045" style="padding-left: 20px; padding-right: 10px">
<h4><span style="color: #ffffff;">Joshua Alamu</span></h4><strong><span style="color: #3399ff;"><br />
Meet &#8216;the voice&#8217; of our vocal masterclass&#8230;</span></strong><br />
<br />
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1282" /> </p><br />
<span style="color: #ffffff;">Joshua Alamu is a professional vocal coach who has worked with some of the biggest names in British pop music. His clients, past and present, include <span style="font-weight: bold;">Westlife</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Joss Stone</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Will Young</span>. But Joshua is probably best known for his appearance as a vocal coach on the television shows &#8216;<a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01nnfdd" target="_blank">The Voice</a>&#8217;, &#8216;Pop Idol&#8217; and &#8216;Just The Two Of Us<br />
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</span> </td></tr></tbody></table> <br />
<h3>Previous Lessons</h3>
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<h4>Adapting a Melody</h4><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=202" target="_self"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1288" /></a><br />
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In the first part of a new vocals masterclass, voice coach Joshua Alamu shows how singers can make a song their own by adapting its melody. <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=202">Watch Now</a> </td>
<td width="30%" style="padding-right: 30px">
<h4>Using Dynamics</h4><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=211" target="_self"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1284" /></a><br />
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In the second part of voice coach Joshua Alamu&#8217;s masterclass he continues with a guide to dynamics enabling students to express themselves more easily. <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=211">Watch Now</a></td>
<td width="30%" style="padding-right: 30px">
<h4>Creating Contrast</h4><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=212" target="_self"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1285" /></a><br />
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In the third instalment of voice coach Joshua Alamu&#8217;s vocals masterclass, he demonstrates how singer&#8217;s can create contrast in their performances using 'ear candy'.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=212">Watch Now</a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <br />
<br />
For more from Joshua, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.joshuaalamu.com/" target="_blank">joshuaalamu.com</a>, or get stuck into a Rockschool&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/gradedmusicexams/vocals/" target="_blank">vocals grade today</a>.&nbsp;<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/uQPVPD1s7m4" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=213Vocals Masterclass Part 3: Creating Contrasthttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/FvO-rqkfpsI/newsarticle.aspx<iframe width="710" height="400" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/hU5XLu6-TX4" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
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<a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1302" target="_blank"><img title="Download Lesson" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1259" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 16pt;">In the latest instalment of voice coach Joshua Alamu&#8217;s vocals masterclass, he demonstrates how singers can create contrast in their performances using &#8216;ear candy&#8217; </span><br />
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<td width="72%" style="padding-right: 20px"> In this, my third of four video lessons for Rockschool, I&#8217;m working with singer Martina Borg to create contrast in the song &#8216;Mama Knows Best&#8217; by Jessie J. We&#8217;ll be using vocal nuances and &#8216;colours&#8217; to help map out a singer&#8217;s unique interpretation of a song. Quincy Jones referred to this as &#8216;ear candy&#8217;. <br />
<h4>Creating contrast</h4>Contrast is about creating different shades of colour with a voice and teaching this is a lot of fun for both the teacher and the singer. A good way of teaching this is to have a singer listen to different styles of music and different singers to get a feel for how singers play around with their vocal tone to create nuances. Vocal nuances are the effects or the colours that a voice is capable of creating. These should be explored with a singer in order for them to understand how they can make those sounds with their own voice. <br />
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Once the singer has grasped a few of these ideas, you can then show them how to implement these nuances into a song with the appropriate emotive intention. Vocal nuances should always come from a place of intention; they should be used to convey various emotions and feelings in the song&#8217;s story rather than simply used for their own sake or to show off. But having said that, it really depends on what the singer is trying to achieve. A sense of fun and vocal flair also has its place &#8211; younger singers tend to approach songs in this way. I believe in allowing these young vocalists to express this because it&#8217;s part of their journey. <br />
<h4>Emotional balance</h4>This should, however, always be balanced with an emotional connection to the song. That should be achieved in an intelligent way and with the right emotive intention utilising vocal colours such as riffs and runs, breathy qualities, nasal qualities, growl, vocal fry, vocal flips, whistle register, falsetto, belt, vibrato etc. Please note that these nuances should always be founded on good healthy vocal technique so as not to damage a singer&#8217;s voice. <br />
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<td width="28% " bgcolor="#003045" style="padding-left: 20px; padding-right: 10px">
<h4><span style="color: #ffffff;">Joshua Alamu</span></h4><strong><span style="color: #3399ff;">Meet &#8216;the voice&#8217; of our vocal masterclass&#8230;</span></strong><br />
<br />
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1282" /> </p><br />
<span style="color: #ffffff;">Joshua Alamu is a professional vocal coach who has worked with some of the biggest names in British pop music. His clients, past and present, include <span style="font-weight: bold;">Westlife</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Joss Stone</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Will Young</span>. But Joshua is probably best known for his appearance as a vocal coach on the television shows &#8216;<a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01nnfdd" target="_blank">The Voice</a>&#8217;, &#8216;Pop Idol&#8217; and &#8216;Just The Two Of Us<br />
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</span> </td></tr></tbody></table>
<h3>Up next...</h3>
<div><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=213"><img title="View Lesson" align="left" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1286" style="padding-right: 15px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-top: 10px" /></a>
<h4>Fine-tuning a Performance</h4>In the <span style="font-weight: bold;">final instalment</span> of our four-part masterclass Josh will be be fine-tuning singing performance in the goal of giving a vocalist confidence in their vision of the song (how they &#8216;see&#8217; it sounding vocally). <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=213">View Lesson</a> </div> <br />
<br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/FvO-rqkfpsI" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=212Vocals Masterclass Part 2: Using Dynamicshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/sVfpYOY-ZEU/newsarticle.aspx<iframe width="710" height="400" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/Pq31fM8rpTo" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
<br />
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<a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1301" target="_blank"><img title="Download Lesson" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1259" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 16pt;">Voice coach Joshua Alamu&#8217;s masterclass continues with a guide to dynamics. Coaching students in these will enable them to express themselves more easily and demonstrate their originality</span> <br />
<br />
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td width="72%" style="padding-right: 20px"> In this, my second of four video lessons for Rockschool, I&#8217;m working with singer Martina Borg to apply vocal dynamics to the song &#8216;Mama Knows Best&#8217; by Jessie J. The aim of this type of exercise is to build changes in volume and increase the vocal intensity on certain lines. This helps to add expressiveness and inject a vocalist&#8217;s originality into the song. <br />
<br />
<h4>Guiding dynamics</h4>Guiding a singer on how to apply vocal dynamics to a song is so important. Dynamics are part of what I like to call &#8216;discretionary tools of expression&#8217; or musical tools. These equip the singer to express themselves as freely as they want and can bring meaning, movement and a sense of style to a song. In their broader sense, dynamics can also refer to musical accents (legato, staccato etc), intonation and unique phrasing, the ebb and flow of a vocal or the musical punctuation marks that help a singer communicate a story or phrase effectively. <br />
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Dynamics are relative, which means everyone can have their own way of using them according to what they are feeling and what they are trying to make other people feel. There is no real right or wrong &#8211; it&#8217;s more about getting the singer you are working with to interpret the emotions and meaning of a song and then express them. As teachers our responsibility is to educate the singer and then make appropriate suggestions and/or show examples. Later you can set a blueprint for the singer to follow in terms of how to use dynamics in connection to their own intentions and what they want to achieve with the song. <br />
<h4>Making mistakes is OK</h4>Ultimately, it&#8217;s important for singers to learn to make their own choices. Try not to get stuck in a rut of dishing out vocal ideas that the singer simply imitates. Instead, let them discover their own ideas through trial and error. Let them know that making mistakes is OK and is part of that process. <br />
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<td width="28% " bgcolor="#003045" style="padding-left: 20px; padding-right: 10px">
<h4><span style="color: #ffffff;">Joshua Alamu</span></h4><strong><span style="color: #3399ff;">Meet &#8216;the voice&#8217; of our vocal masterclass&#8230;</span></strong><br />
<br />
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1282" /> </p><br />
<span style="color: #ffffff;">Joshua Alamu is a professional vocal coach who has worked with some of the biggest names in British pop music. His clients, past and present, include <span style="font-weight: bold;">Westlife</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Joss Stone</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Will Young</span>. But Joshua is probably best known for his appearance as a vocal coach on the television shows &#8216;<a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01nnfdd" target="_blank">The Voice</a>&#8217;, &#8216;Pop Idol&#8217; and &#8216;Just The Two Of Us<br />
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</span> </td></tr></tbody></table>
<h3>Up next...</h3>
<div><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=212"><img title="View Lesson" align="left" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1285" style="padding-right: 15px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-top: 9px" /></a>
<h4>Creating Contrast</h4> In the next lesson Josh will be be using vocal nuances and &#8216;colours&#8217; to help map out a singer&#8217;s unique interpretation of a song. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quincy_Jones" target="_blank">Quincy Jones</a> referred to this as &#8216;ear candy&#8217;. <br />
<a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=212" target="_self">View Lesson</a></div> <br />
<br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/sVfpYOY-ZEU" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=211Vocals Masterclass Part 1: Adapting a Melodyhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/86vtBBnfI7c/newsarticle.aspx<iframe width="710" height="400" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/buAA8toCFrk" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
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<br />
<a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1300" target="_blank"><img title="Download Lesson" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1259" style="padding-right: 20px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 16pt;">In the first part of a new vocals masterclass, voice coach Joshua Alamu shows how singers can make a song their own by adapting its melody</span><br />
<br />
<table>
<tbody>
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<td width="72%" style="padding-right: 20px">In this, the first of four video lessons for Rockschool, I&#8217;m working with vocalist Martina Borg on the song &#8216;<a href="http://youtu.be/TswOLHUQFPk" target="_blank">Mama Knows Best</a>&#8217; by Jessie J. We&#8217;ll use the same song for each of the lessons, but each time focus on a different aspect of vocal performance. This time we are adapting the melody. The goal of this type of exercise is to make a song sound unique to the singer while focusing on their vocal strengths.<br />
<h4>Adapting or modifying the melody</h4> Adapting or modifying the melody of a song is an important aspect of helping a vocalist make a song their own rather than attempt to copy the original note for note. That said, I believe it&#8217;s good practice to teach a singer to respect the song&#8217;s original melody. Usually I help singers achieve this by having them sing the melody without variations up to at least the first verse and chorus. This gives the listener the chance to recognise the song and connect with the performance before the vocalist starts putting his or her stamp on the melody. By respecting the original song in this way a singer is more likely to get an audience on his or her side.<br />
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Once the unaltered melody has been established the fun can start for you and the vocalist you are working with. Adjusting the song&#8217;s melody to suit the singer&#8217;s intention, vocal strengths, stylistic characteristics, vocal nuances and tone is the key to any vocalist discovering how to communicate their own interpretation of a song. Your advice as a teacher should be centered on the student, allowing them to be free enough to create their own ideas &#8211; with some guidance from you, of course. <br />
<h4>20/80 rule</h4>I like to use the 20/80 rule when teaching using this method. That means a ratio of 20 per cent teacher&#8217;s guidance to 80 per cent the singer&#8217;s own ideas. I believe it&#8217;s important to give students the opportunity to make their own mistakes and learn from them. </td>
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<h4><span style="color: #ffffff;">Joshua Alamu</span></h4><strong><span style="color: #3399ff;">Meet &#8216;the voice&#8217; of our vocal masterclass&#8230;</span></strong><br />
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<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.joshuaalamu.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1282" /></a> </p><br />
<span style="color: #ffffff;">Joshua Alamu is a professional vocal coach who has worked with some of the biggest names in British pop music. His clients, past and present, include <span style="font-weight: bold;">Westlife</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Joss Stone</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Will Young</span>. But Joshua is probably best known for his appearance as a vocal coach on the television shows &#8216;<a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01nnfdd" target="_blank">The Voice</a>&#8217;, &#8216;Pop Idol&#8217; and &#8216;Just The Two Of Us.<br />
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<h3>Up next...</h3>
<div><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=211"><img title="View Lesson" align="left" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1284" style="padding-right: 15px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-top: 12px" /></a>
<h4>Using Dynamics</h4>In the next lesson Josh will be showing how to apply dynamics to the song 'Mama Knows Best' by Jessie J, working on building changes in volume and increasing the vocal intensity on certain lines.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=211">View Lesson</a> </div> <br />
<h3>Got a question?</h3> If you've got a question on this weeks lesson, join in the conversation on&nbsp;<a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/facebook" target="_blank">Facebook</a>&nbsp;or <a href="https://twitter.com/Rockschool" target="_blank">Twitter</a><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/86vtBBnfI7c" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=202Student Discount - London Acoustic Guitar Show 7 - 8 Sept 2013http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/wuijeyngj9c/newsarticle.aspx<br />
<span style="font-size: 18pt;">Get 37% off your London Acoustic Guitar Festival ticket, featuring Matt Cardle, Hudson Taylor, Scott Matthews and many more</span><br />
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Join acoustic music enthusiasts at the London Acoustic Guitar Show on Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 September. The show brings Main Stage performances and Masterclasses. Headlining Saturday&#8217;s Live Stage is platinum-selling artist Matt Cardle, plus more amazing performances from Martin Simpson, Tom Baxter, Hudson Taylor, Scott Matthews and Jake Shimabukuro brings the ukulele to our stage for the very first time. <br />
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With your student discount code, you will save OVER 37% on the door entry price &#8211; Just visit the <a href="http://www.londonacousticguitarshow.com/visit/buy-tickets/" target="_blank">London Acoustic Guitar Show website</a>&nbsp;and enter <span style="font-weight: bold;">stud17ent</span> at purchase. <br />
<h3>2012 Highlights</h3><iframe width="710" height="400" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/JPCUYtGfowY" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/wuijeyngj9c" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=214Free Bass Lesson: Moveable Riffshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/pvXorG59uK4/newsarticle.aspx<iframe width="710" height="400" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/kntCCMRvr04" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
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<span style="font-size: 19px;">Prepare your students for the riff exercises in Bass Grades Debut-5 with this free lesson, including backing track and video demonstration</span><br />
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<h3>Introduction to Moveable Bass Riffs</h3>Riffs are an important part of lots of styles of music. A riff is a short, repeated idea that provides a song with a hook (see first example, &#8216;Riff&#8217;, below). Riffs can be played all the way through a song without changing, but they are also moved to a different starting note to create interest or movement in the music (see &#8216;Riff moving from I to IV&#8217;).&nbsp;
<h4>Download Lesson</h4> This free bass lesson is available to download by clicking the download button below. Included in the bundle are:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Lesson examples</li>
<li>Backing tracks</li>
<li>Full video lesson</li>
<li>Lesson PDF</li></ul> <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1281" target="_self"><img title="Download Lesson" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1259" /></a>
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<h4><span style="color: #ffffff;">On Record</span></h4><br />
<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1275" /> <br />
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<span id="docs-internal-guid-79d1c1e1-0b47-b9c0-1073-dfa3da36599a" style="font-size: 15px; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #ffffff; background-color: transparent; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">&#8216;</span><span id="docs-internal-guid-79d1c1e1-0b47-b9c0-1073-dfa3da36599a" style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #ffffff; background-color: transparent; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"><a href="http://youtu.be/6rb13ksYO0s" target="_blank">Pressure Drop</a>&#8217; &#8211; Toots &amp; The Maytals</span><br />
<span id="docs-internal-guid-79d1c1e1-0b48-0218-3db3-0322bc9d4140" style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #ffffff; background-color: transparent; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">&#8216;<a href="http://youtu.be/IDZqmF3zS04" target="_blank">Sunshine Of Your Love</a>&#8217; &#8211; Cream</span><br />
<span id="docs-internal-guid-79d1c1e1-0b48-1c60-3589-4465e486ab29" style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #ffffff; background-color: transparent; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">&#8216;<a href="http://youtu.be/SzlpTRNIAvc" target="_blank">I Feel Good</a>&#8217; &#8211; James Brown</span><br />
<span id="docs-internal-guid-79d1c1e1-0b48-3a12-4295-793020379f5a" style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #ffffff; background-color: transparent; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">&#8216;<a href="http://youtu.be/2-V8kYT1pvE" target="_blank">I'm Broken</a>&#8217; &#8211; Pantera</span><br />
<span id="docs-internal-guid-79d1c1e1-0b48-64fa-89bf-4ed1d4082922" style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #ffffff; background-color: transparent; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">&#8216;<a href="http://youtu.be/o3vWFhQvYy4" target="_blank">The Jack</a>&#8217; &#8211; AC/DC</span><br />
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<h3>Breaking Down Riffs</h3>
<h4>What is a riff?</h4> A riff is a short, repeated idea that provides a song with a hook (see first example, &#8216;Riff&#8217;, below).<br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1276" /><br />
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<h4>Riffs moving from I to IV&nbsp;</h4>Riffs can be played all the way through a song without changing, but they are also moved to a different starting note to create interest or movement in the music (see &#8216;Riff moving from I to IV&#8217;). <br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1277" /><br />
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<h3> Lesson Examples </h3>
<h4>Fig.1 | Riff moving from E string to A string - backing track 1</h4> Fig. 1 </span>is a riff that is played on the E string then moved to the A string. Notice how the fretboard pattern is the same; all that changes is the strings that it&#8217;s played on. This is a common move in blues, R&amp;B and some rock music too.<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1278" /><br />
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<h4>Fig.2 | Riff practice for grade exams - backing track 1&nbsp;</h4>The Debut to Grade 5 candidate books contain an exercise where the riff shape is given to you but the remaining bars contain only the new starting notes. This means you must work out what the correct notes are by moving (or transposing) the riff to the new starting note. Fig. 2 is an example of this.&nbsp;<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1279" /><br />
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<h4>Fig.3 | More riff practice for grade exams - backing track 1</h4><span style="font-weight: bold;">Fig. 3 </span>is a similar example that uses a different chord progression from Fig. 2. Students can practise these three figures along to the backing track available to download above.<br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1280" /><br />
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<h3>More Lessons</h3> We've got a bunch more video lessons for you to check out below!<br />
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<td class="LeftLeft" style="width: 70%"><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=189" target="_blank">How to play chords in the guitar grade exams</a>&nbsp;</td>
<td class="CenterRight" style="width: 30%">Guitar</td></tr>
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<td class="LeftLeft"><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=193" target="_blank">Using rests for better basslines</a></td>
<td class="CenterRight">Bass</td></tr>
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<td class="LeftLeft" style="width: 70%"><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=201" target="_blank">How to use target notes for great sounding string bends</a></td>
<td class="CenterRight" style="width: 30%">Guitar</td></tr>
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<td class="LeftLeft"><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=206" target="_blank">How to improve rhythm guitar playing</a></td>
<td class="CenterRight">Guitar</td></tr>
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<td class="LeftLeft" style="width: 70%"><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=204" target="_blank">Rockschool digital: Extra exam pieces</a></td>
<td class="CenterRight" style="width: 30%">Guitar</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;">Do you know anyone who needs help with their bass riffs? Share with friends using the links at the top of the page.</span><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/pvXorG59uK4" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=210Singing & Songwriting Help at the Ultimate Artists Masterclasshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/dnPNnl9jyPg/newsarticle.aspx<span style="font-size: 14pt;">Are you an aspiring singer, songwriter or producer? Have you just passed your Rockschool exam? Looking for ways to take your music to the next level?</span><br />
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The Ultimate Artists Masterclass is an exciting five-day artist development opportunity teaching you the skills of vocal technique and style, songwriting and music production. Three industry professionals will present the Masterclass sessions: vocal coach <a href="http://www.joshuaalamu.com" target="_blank">Joshua Alamu</a>, hit songwriter <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/User:Ali_Tennant" target="_blank">Ali Tennant</a> (both of whom recently worked on the BBC&#8217;s '<a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01nnfdd" target="_blank">The Voice</a>') and producer and Rockschool examiner Eva Brandt. <br />
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The days will be jam packed with hints and tips from world class vocal coaches, so you'll be able to develop the essential skills of songwriting and production while also discovering more about what your voice can do. <br />
<h3>What will I learn?</h3>You'll get an intensive insight into the knowledge of world class professionals in the areas of:&nbsp;<br />
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<li>Songwriting secrets&nbsp;</li>
<li>Music production&nbsp;</li>
<li>Vocal technique</li>
<li>Vocal style</li></ul>There will be networking opportunities and advice from industry professionals &#8211; and the event will end with a showcase at a London music venue.This is a great opportunity to get your talent heard and developed, so don't miss out!&nbsp;<br />
<h3>How can I book a place?</h3>Places are limited so head over now to the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ultimateartists.org/" target="_blank">Ultimate Artists website</a>&nbsp;or get in touch with the UA team over on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/UltimateArtists" target="_blank">Facebook</a>.&nbsp;If you email <a href="mailto:info@ultimateartists.org " target="_blank">info@ultimateartists.org </a>now and quote the code <span style="font-weight: bold;">RSUA2013</span> you will be contacted by the UA team and given a <span style="font-weight: bold;">40% discount</span> on the full course price, this offer is valid for the next two weeks only!&nbsp;<br />
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<h3>Video Trailer</h3><br />
<iframe width="710" height="400" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/7vqLiJiBZR0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
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<br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/dnPNnl9jyPg" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=205Visually-impaired Guitarist Masters Rockschool Syllabushttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/Ee_XF1c-Tvo/newsarticle.aspx<span style="font-size: 14pt; color: #333333;">John Crawford is not your average musician. This guitar player and teacher from Tullahoma, Tennessee has battled a visual impairment to not only master the Rockschool Syllabus but teach it too. </span><br />
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<h4>Q: So, John, what can you tell us about your condition?</h4> A: &#8220;I was born extremely near-sighted with an astigmatism. That means my vision is very, very blurry and I have to look closely at everything. I cannot drive a car and reading is a real pain. When I drop something, sometimes I have to have help finding it. <br />
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But overall I live a largely normal, productive and happy life. I don't wear my sight problem on my sleeve and I refuse to feel sorry for myself. If I need help, I ask for it. If I do not, you'll know. I think of myself as independent and resourceful &#8211; heck, I have even helped sighted people cross a four-lane highway before!&#8221;<br />
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<h4>Q: How do you manage to learn pieces of music? </h4> A: &#8220;I learn by reading several clefs of music and I am beginning to develop a little bit of sight reading skill. Rockschool was responsible for that. I was told years ago mistakenly that I would never be able to sight read. I started using your sight reading examples in the grade books and Companion Guides. I also bought a book full of them from the ABRSM, from which I have a Grade 3 theory certificate. So I worked very hard and although my reading is still slow, it has improved my reading of standard notation by leaps and bounds.&#8221;<br />
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<h4>Q: How does your visual impairment factor into this? </h4> A: &#8220;I have to use a very high powered magnifying glass, one that if you looked through it, would probably give you a headache &#8211; it does me and my eyes get very tired. The next thing I do is memorize the pieces. <br />
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I learn all six pieces in each grade book, memorize them as best I can, then practise them for hours at a time. Often it's the same piece over and over and over &#8211; sometimes slowly with no accompaniment, sometimes with a metronome, sometimes with the backing track. I almost sent Jeremy Ward [Rockschool&#8217;s Executive Director and count-in voice] a Christmas card because I feel like I know the guy. At one time I had seven books worth of pieces memorized in the guitar syllabus and five books worth of bass pieces as well!&#8221;<br />
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<h4>Q: Jeremy is a huge personality in the office. How has he helped your learning? </h4> A: &#8220;<span style="font-weight: bold;">He&#8217;s like the patient music teacher guiding me through</span>. The count-ins by Jeremy remind me of the teacher saying, &#8216;Let's do it again one more time&#8217; &#8211; very reassuring!&#8221; <br />
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<h4>Q: Do you ever have to modify the pieces after learning them from memory? </h4> A: &#8220;Yeah, definitely. I should point out that I play the pieces by memory after I get them solidified into my brain. This leads to me sometimes remembering a portion of the piece I am playing wrong and kind of playing it my own way. It sounds mostly right, but if you watch me carefully you can see little modifications. You ought to hear my version of &#8216;Maiden Voyage&#8217; from Grade 3!&#8221;<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">John Crawford playing Guitar Grade 3 piece, 'Maiden Voyage'</span><br />
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<h4>Q: When did you first hear of Rockschool? </h4> A: &#8220;In 1984 when one of our local public broadcasting stations, PBS, was airing episodes of the 1980s BBC show Rock School [featuring Deirdre Cartwright, a key contributor the Rockschool Syllabuses and friend of Chairman, Norton York] . One day it dawned on me that I wanted to find a more organized approach to my guitar and bass playing. I got on YouTube and began searching for answers. Then I remembered the old TV show, so I looked up Rockschool and found a video titled &#8216;Rockschool Grade 8 - 667&#8217;. Off goes this young man from China just shredding the coolest piece of music I have ever heard. So that was it, really. I was sold, lock, stock and barrel. I've been an addict ever since and my students are now learning the pieces.&#8221;<br />
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<h4>Q: How often do you practise using the Rockschool Syllabus? </h4> A: &#8220;I use the Rockschool programme every day. It's lead to me playing in ways I only dreamed of and to me it is the best kept secret in the music teaching world for aspiring rock musicians.&#8221; <br />
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<h4>Q: Guitar isn&#8217;t the only instrument you play and teach, is it? </h4> A: &#8220;No, I am a graduate of the Tennessee School for the Blind and have two Associate of Arts degrees from Motlow State Community College. I am no virtuoso by any means, but I play several instruments including guitar, bass, violin, viola, cello (very badly), upright bass, mandolin and ukulele.&#8221;<br />
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<h4>Q: So would you say Rockschool has had a positive effect on your learning? </h4> &#8220;For sure! I'm not your best &#8216;Rockschooler&#8217; ever &#8211; there are guys out there who play circles around me &#8211; but compared to how I used to play, the difference is astounding. Everyone in my family has noticed and commented on it. I just want to say a huge thank you to the composers, the players, the staff and everyone who makes this all possible so that I can continue to learn.&#8221;<br />
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Thanks for your time, John. All the best conquering the new syllabus! You can find out more about John and his work in the links below.&nbsp;<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/Ee_XF1c-Tvo" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=208Success Stories: Pedro Miguel Caldas Lobohttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/xRMF78evl_o/newsarticle.aspx<span style="font-size: 14pt;">Pedro Miguel Caldas Lobo is the youngest ever candidate to sit a Rockschool exam in Portugal. At just five years old he took his Drums Debut Performance Certificate this summer, achieving an awesome 93 per cent!</span> <br />
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Pedro was born in Aveiro, Portugal on 1 August 2007. He was just two years old the first time he sat behind the kit, playing a duet with his older brother Hugo (aged 10). On his own initiative Pedro picked up the Rockschool Drums Debut book, listening to the CD and learning the notes on the stave &#8211; this was even before he learnt the alphabet! Pedro was a natural drummer, rarely asking for help from his teacher or even his parents. <br />
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Pedro&#8217;s favourite musician is Phil Collins &#8211; after doing some research on YouTube this year he learnt &#8216;In The Air Tonight&#8217; from beginning to end. Pedro also plays in a band called Pestinhas with his brother, taking local restaurants around town as well as his brother&#8217;s school by storm. <br />
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Pedro starts his first year of school in September &#8211; and don&#8217;t worry, they've made sure there&#8217;s a drum kit there for him to play! Best of luck to Pedro from everyone here and his fellow Rockschoolers. Next on the cards is his Grade 1 exam, which he plans to take next year.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/xRMF78evl_o" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=209Free Guitar Lesson: How To Improve Rhythm Guitar Playinghttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/aBPu8u968nQ/newsarticle.aspx<br />
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Improve your students&#8217; rhythm playing with our free guitar lesson on ghost strumming &#8211; includes backing tracks and a video lesson to download and show to students</span><br />
<h4>More Guitar Lessons</h4> Catch up on all our other guitar lessons below:
<ul>
<li> <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=201">How to use target notes for great sounding string bends</a> </li>
<li> <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=189">How to play chords in the guitar grade exams</a></li>
<li> <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=182">How To Improve Your Practice Efficiency</a> </li> </ul>
<h3>How To Improve Rhythm Guitar Playing</h3>
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<h4>Description</h4>
<p>Having a good strumming technique is a key part of becoming a great rhythm player. Keeping your hand moving in a constant strumming motion regardless of the rhythm to be played is one of the most important elements of a sound strumming action. This free guitar lesson will help students achieve this through the use of &#8216;ghost strums&#8217;, which are introduced gradually via the four figures below.&nbsp;</p>
<h4>Download Lesson</h4> This free guitar lesson is available to download by clicking the download button below. Included in the bundle are:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Lesson examples</li>
<li>Backing tracks</li>
<li>Full video lesson</li>
<li>Lesson PDF</li></ul> <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1258"><img title="Download Lesson" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1259" /></a>
<ul> </ul> </td>
<td width="27% " bgcolor="#003045" style="padding-left: 15px; padding-right: 10px"> <br />
<h5><span style="color: #ffffff;">On Record</span></h5><br />
<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1257" /> <br />
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'<a href="http://youtu.be/c1AxoPTAgxA" target="_blank">Get The Funk Out</a>' <span style="color: #ffffff;">- Extreme</span><br />
'<a href="http://youtu.be/GIzDsGyxsQM" target="_blank">Through Glass</a>' <span style="color: #ffffff;">- Stone Sour</span><br />
<a href="http://youtu.be/fY0oPg1h8fQ" target="_blank">'Lightning Bolt</a>' <span style="color: #ffffff;">- Jake Bugg</span><br />
'<a href="http://youtu.be/h5EofwRzit0" target="_blank">Get Lucky</a>' <span style="color: #ffffff;">- Daft Punk</span><br />
'<a href="http://youtu.be/i_2mWhfOhGU" target="_blank">Live Forever</a>' <span style="color: #ffffff;">- Oasis</span><br />
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<h3>Lesson Examples</h3>
<h4>Example 1</h4>
<p>Students will start by strumming muted strings in an eighth-note rhythm to establish good strumming technique (Fig. 1).</p>
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</p><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1247" /><br />
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<h4>Example 2</h4>
<p>Once students are comfortable strumming muted strings with downstrokes and upstrokes it&#8217;s time to let them have a go at strumming a chord using the same rhythm (Fig. 2).&nbsp;</p>
<p><br />
</p>
<p><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1248" /></p>
<p><br />
</p>
<h4>Example 3</h4>
<p>The next example uses the same chord but a different rhythm. This is where ghost strumming comes in: in order to keep a constant strumming motion students must move the pick a short distance away from the strings for the upstrokes on the &#8216;&amp;&#8217;s of beats one and two (Fig. 3).&nbsp;</p>
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<p><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1249" /></p>
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<h4>Example 4</h4>
<p>Our final example introduces a new rhythm so students can continue to develop their ghost strumming technique (Fig. 4).</p>
<p><br />
</p>
<p><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1250" /></p> <br />
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">Do you know anyone who needs help with their rhythm guitar playing? Share with friends using the links at the top of the page.</span><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/aBPu8u968nQ" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=206Free Download: 'Meet Darth Ear' (Alternative Version)http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/clrKdHfL0Ig/newsarticle.aspx<span style="font-size: 14pt;">A free alternative version of Drums Grade 8 track, 'Meet Darth Ear' featuring double bass drum part is available for you all to download below. Enjoy!&nbsp;</span>
<h2>Free Download</h2>
<table class="Document">
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<td style="padding-right: 10px"><img class="AdobeReader" id="imgAdobeReaderIcon" alt="Adobe Reader Icon" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/IconAdobeReader.gif" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" /></td>
<td class="Text" style="padding-right: 10px"><b><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1255" target="_self">Sheet Music&nbsp;</a></b><br />
(607KB, 6 pages, .pdf)</td>
<td class="Icon"><img id="ZipIconGuitarGradeThree" class="Zip" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/IconZip.gif" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><b><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1256" target="_self">Audio</a></b><br />
(5.32MB, .zip)</td></tr></tbody></table> <br />
<br />
<iframe width="710" height="400" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/Tw1g_UG8vJU" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/clrKdHfL0Ig" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=207Rockschool Digital: Behind The Scenes On 'All The Way' & 'What Goes Up'http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/puqNRdb3-9s/newsarticle.aspx<span id="docs-internal-guid-347d0922-85db-8d22-0d33-8e943983e95d" style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #333333; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal;">Grammy-nominated producer Nick Davis, composer Simon Troup and performer Stuart Ryan give their take on the two brand new Rockschool Digital guitar tracks...</span><br />
<h3>'All The Way'</h3>
<h4>Composer Joe Bennett:</h4>&quot;I wrote '<a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01062802/details.html" target="_blank">All The Way</a>' after hearing an old Stax compilation album. I've always admired the way that Steve Cropper could take a five- or six-note riff and make it sit perfectly in the track by combining open and fretted notes, played exactly on the beat without too much syncopation.<br />
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What makes these riffs so enjoyable to play is that they work in different styles &#8211; you can play them cleanly for a 60s Memphis soul sound, or crank up the distortion for a more straight-ahead rock feel.<br />
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The bass-string riffs in the first half of the track can be played with the pick near the bridge for a &#8216;James Bond&#8217; spy theme feel, or over the neck pickup for a fuller rock sound. The double-stops in the second half are one of my favourite ways to develop a lead guitar part &#8211; I love the way this technique sits halfway between chord playing and soloing. Two notes are better than one, right?&quot;<br />
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<h4>Producer Nick Davis:</h4>&quot;This is a low-slung guitar tune if ever I heard one! Get your long guitar strap out and enjoy learning a cool piece that can be played with as much attitude as you&#8217;ve got. &#8216;<a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01062802/details.html" target="_blank">All The Way&#8217;</a> was recorded with a very laid-back feel. Listen out for the incredible Hammond keyboard work &#8211; it will be inspiring to play along with.&quot;</td> </tr> </tbody></table> <br />
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<h4>Performer Stuart Ryan:</h4>&quot;Attitude is a key element to getting a piece like this right. You have to lock in tightly with the rhythm section and make sure that everything is in time. Another challenge is to dig in. This type of playing demands some presence, so your right hand attack must be strong &#8211; but not too strong so you end up over-playing! <br />
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A good technique to focus on here is the upstroke on your picking hand when playing chord &#8216;stabs&#8217; on the first, second and third strings &#8211; a swift upstroke will give you all the attack you need to make these chords really jump out.&quot;</td> </tr> </tbody></table> <br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=758" style="width: 710px" /><br />
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<h3>'What Goes Up'&nbsp;</h3>
<h4>Composer Simon Troup:</h4>&quot;In 1981 aged just 14, I saw Carlos Santana play at the Royal Albert Hall on the &#8216;Zebop&#8217; world tour. I'd seen other bands playing smaller venues, but none left an impression on me like this. The large exotic Latin rhythm section, the swirling layers of Hammond organ and the saturated tube-driven dorian blues from Carlos himself combined into something somehow deeper and richer than anything I'd experienced before.<br />
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These are the basic ingredients I used to write &#8216;<a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01062838/details.html" target="_blank">What Goes Up&#8217;</a>, and to make it really shine you need to take a leaf from Carlos&#8217;s book &#8211; be bold, keep it tight and keep it simple, but be bluesy and rock. In the unison sections (playing the same melody as the brass) make sure you sound like one of the band.&quot;<br />
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<iframe width="710" height="400" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/pH1oJecjyYM" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
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<h4>Producer Nick Davis:</h4>&quot;If you want to play along with a smokin&#8217; brass section and cool as you like percussion, this is the track for you. We recorded &#8216;What Goes Up&#8217; with a tight and punchy brass section and Latin feel so it&#8217;s a great piece to play along with. There are lovely rhythm stabs and it&#8217;s the best possible track to improve your lead technique. &#8216;<a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01062838/details.html" target="_blank">What Goes Up</a>&#8217; has it all!&quot;</td> </tr> </tbody></table> <br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=758" style="width: 710px" /><br />
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<h4>Performer Stuart Ryan:</h4>&quot;This a great piece to perform.The fusion of Latin grooves with rock guitar is a great combination and really makes you dig in while riding those fiery rhythms. Getting the timing right is the challenge here: you want to aim for an ever so slightly lazy feel and the tone must be spot on as well &#8211; thick and mid-rangey without being muddy is the order of the day. <br />
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Being able to play off the horns is another great aspect of this piece. They help propel the music along and if you are careful you can mimic some of their phrasing and melodic content to really add another dimension to &#8216;What Goes Up'.&quot;</td> </tr> </tbody></table> <br />
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<font color="#333333" face="arial, helvetica, sans-serif"><b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">'</span><a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01062802/details.html" target="_blank" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">All The Way</a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">', '</span><a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01062838/details.html" target="_blank" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">What Goes Up</a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">' and Bass Grade 2 track '<a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01063373/details.html" target="_blank">Lazy Daze</a>' are all available to buy online now from the </span><a href="http://www.musicroom.com/downloads.aspx" target="_blank" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">digital section</a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> of the Musicroom site. </span></b></font><br />
<br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/puqNRdb3-9s" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=176Rockschool Digital: Extra Exam Pieceshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/Nzd680P9PlU/newsarticle.aspx<font color="#333333" size="4"><b>Rockschool grade books are now available to download piece by piece from musicroom.com. To mark the occasion,&nbsp;</b></font><font color="#333333"><span style="font-size: 19px;"><b>we've&nbsp;</b></span></font><font color="#333333" size="4"><b>produced three extra Exam Pieces for guitar and bass.<br />
</b></font><br />
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<iframe width="710" height="400" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/0_9TDb1WtDU" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
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<img align="right" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1242" style="padding-left: 20px; padding-top:20px" />
<h2>Extra Exam Pieces</h2> Rockschool&#8217;s <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/2012syllabus" target="_blank">2012&#8211;2018 syllabus</a> has been available on <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/rockschool" target="_blank">musicroom.com</a> for several months, but now, via the same website, we can offer each of our grade books to <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/rockschooldigital.html" target="_blank">download</a> section by section and Exam Piece by Exam Piece. This way you can buy only the bits you actually need at a fraction of the cost of a full book &#8211; from 99p to &#163;2.99. You can find all the sections and Exam Pieces, along with backing tracks where appropriate, by searching for &#8216;<a href="http://www.musicroom.com/rockschooldigital.html" target="_blank">Rockschool digital</a>&#8217; on musicroom.com.<br />
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To mark the launch of these downloads we've recorded three additional Exam Pieces which can&#8217;t be found in our <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/books/guitar/gradebooks" target="_blank">Grade Books</a> &#8211; but can be downloaded from musicroom.com, priced &#163;2.99 each. These can all be used as alternatives to the pieces in our books, should students wish to perform them in their exams. <br />
<h3>Guitar Pieces</h3>
<h4>Guitar Grade 1 - 'All The Way'</h4><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1245" target="_blank">Download TAB</a><br />
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Guitar Grade 1 has &#8216;<a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01062802/details.html" target="_blank">All The Way&#8217;</a> (shown in the video above), a heavy groove-based piece in the style of soul groups of the 1960s like Booker T. &amp; The MGs. We asked the song&#8217;s composer, Joe Bennett, where he got his inspiration from...<br />
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<b><i>&#8220;I wrote &#8216;All The Way&#8217; after hearing an old Stax compilation album.&nbsp;I've&nbsp;always admired the way that [Stax and MGs guitarist] Steve Cropper could take a five or six-note riff and make it sit perfectly in the track by combining open and fretted notes, played exactly on the beat without too much syncopation.&#8221; </i></b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=176" target="_blank">Find out</a> what Grammy Award winning producer <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=176" target="_blank">Nick Davis</a> had to say about the track.<br />
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<h4>Guitar Grade 4 - 'What Goes Up'</h4>At Grade 4 guitarists have an upbeat Latin track called &#8216;<a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01062838/details.html" target="_blank">What Goes Up</a>&#8217; which was written by Rockschool music engraver and composer Simon Troup and influenced by his attending a gig by Santana in London. Simon offers some advice on how to perform it for an exam&#8230; <br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">&#8220;To make it really shine you need to take a leaf from Carlos&#8217;s book: be bold, keep it tight and keep it simple, but be bluesy and rock. In the unison sections (playing the same melody as the brass) make sure you sound like one of the band.&#8221;<br />
</span><br />
<a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=176" target="_blank">Find out</a>&nbsp;what Grammy Award winning producer&nbsp;<a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=176" target="_blank">Nick Davis</a>&nbsp;had to say about the track.<br />
<h3>Bass Pieces</h3>
<h4>Bass Grade 2 - 'Lazy Daze'</h4>For bassists we recorded something a bit different: Grade 2&#8217;s &#8216;<a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01063373/details.html" target="_blank">Lazy Daze</a>&#8217;, a modern piece influenced by dubstep artists such as Chase &amp; Status, Magnetic Man and Skrillex. You can search for each of these extra Exam Pieces by title (e.g. &#8216;Rockschool What Goes Up&#8217;) on <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/rockschooldigital.html" target="_blank">musicroom.com</a>. We've filmed video performances of '<a href="http://youtu.be/0_9TDb1WtDU" target="_blank">All The Way</a>' and '<a href="http://youtu.be/pH1oJecjyYM" target="_blank">What Goes Up</a>' by Stuart Ryan and made them available online as an extra resource. These can be found on our <a href="https://vimeo.com/rockschoolexams" target="_blank">Vimeo</a> and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/RockschoolExams" target="_blank">YouTube</a>&nbsp;pages, where you'll find several other video performances, including three by session drummer Jason Bowld <br />
<h3>TAB: 'All The Way'&nbsp;</h3> <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1245" target="_blank">Download TAB<br />
</a><br />
This heavy soul riff is based on the work of guitarist Steve Cropper. At Grade 1, students may wish to count along as they play it until they are comfortable with the effect the rests have on the rhythm.&nbsp;<br />
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<img title="Extra Exam Piece- 'All The Way'" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=1243" /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/Nzd680P9PlU" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=204Hot Rock Guitar Grades 4 & 5 OUT NOWhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/e47jZ9WFdPY/newsarticle.aspx<iframe width="710" height="400" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/oxFWuh5IoAk" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; font-weight: bold; color: #333333;">Hot Rock Guitar 4 &amp; 5 give you the ultimate choice in rock classics to use in your Rockschool exam, GCSE and A Level or simply playing at home for fun!&nbsp;</span><br />
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At Rockschool we're committed to providing you with the best tracks to use in your exam and at home which is why we've expanded our Hot Rock series to include guitar grades 4 and 5. Each book features&nbsp;songs from some of the best selling and most respected bands and guitarists on the planet. You'll also find all the same great features from grades 1-3 including,&nbsp;<span style="font-weight: bold;">authentic</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;">tone and amp settings</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">fact files</span>,&nbsp;<span style="font-weight: bold;">walkthroughs </span>and&nbsp;two versions of each track&nbsp;to use in your <span style="font-weight: bold;">Rockschool exam</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">GCSE</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">A level</span> or simply playing at <span style="font-weight: bold;">home for fun</span>.<br />
<h2>Hot Rock Guitar Grade 4</h2><br />
<table>
<tbody>
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<td><img width="170" height="224" title="Pre-order now" alt=" Hot Rock Guitar - Grade 4" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=1206" style="padding: 0px 20px 20px 0px;" /><br />
<a class="sampleGrade4 cboxElement" shape="rect" title="Hot Rock Guitar Grade 4 - Page 29" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/Books/Guitar/Samples/HotRockGradeFourPageTwentyNine.jpg"><img id="Samples" alt="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/Trans.gif" /></a><a class="sampleGrade4 cboxElement" shape="rect" title="Hot Rock Guitar Grade 4 - Page 30" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/Books/Guitar/Samples/HotRockGradeFourPageThirty.jpg"></a><a class="sampleGrade4 cboxElement" shape="rect" title="Hot Rock Guitar Grade 4 - Page 32" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/Books/Guitar/Samples/HotRockGradeFourPageThirtytwo.jpg"></a> </td>
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<h4>Book Features</h4>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Edited exam versions:</span> play your favourite song in your Rockschool exam!</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Full transcriptions:</span> with vocal line, TAB and standard notation</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Fact Files:</span> band and artist background information with recommended further listening</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Walkthroughs:</span> hints and tips on the tricky sections of the songs</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">2 CDs:</span> with full mixes and backing tracks &#8211; exam versions and full transcriptions</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Introduction to tone:</span> authentic tone and amp settings suggestions for each track</li></ul>
<h4>Track Listing</h4>
<ul>
<li>For Whom The Bell Tolls <span style="font-weight: bold;">Metallica </span></li>
<li>The Boys Are Back In Town <span style="font-weight: bold;">Thin Lizzy</span> </li>
<li>Before I Fall To Pieces <span style="font-weight: bold;">Razorlight </span></li>
<li>Don&#8217;t Look Back In Anger <span style="font-weight: bold;">Oasis</span> </li>
<li>Edge Of Darkness <span style="font-weight: bold;">Eric Clapton </span></li>
<li>Iron Man <span style="font-weight: bold;">Black Sabbath </span></li>
<li>Whole Lotta Rosie <span style="font-weight: bold;">AC/DC</span></li>
<li>Ice 9 <span style="font-weight: bold;">Joe Satriani</span> </li></ul><span style="margin-right: 20px;"><a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01070561/details.html" target="_blank">Buy&nbsp;now</a>&nbsp;from musicroom.com&nbsp;</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br />
<h3>Audio Samples</h3><iframe width="100%" height="110" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F93186034&color=005db1&auto_play=false&show_artwork=false"></iframe> <br />
<br />
<h2>Hot Rock Guitar Grade 5</h2><br />
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<td><img align="left" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1207" style="padding: 0px 20px 20px 0px;" /><br />
<a class="sampleGrade5 cboxElement" shape="rect" title="Hot Rock Guitar Grade 5 - Page 25" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/Books/Guitar/Samples/HotRockGradeFivePageTwentyFive.jpg"><img id="Samples" alt="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/Trans.gif" /></a><a class="sampleGrade5 cboxElement" shape="rect" title="Hot Rock Guitar Grade 5 - Page 26" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/Books/Guitar/Samples/HotRockGradeFivePageTwentySix.jpg"></a><a class="sampleGrade5 cboxElement" shape="rect" title="Hot Rock Guitar Grade 5 - Page 30" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/Books/Guitar/Samples/HotRockGradeFivePageThirty.jpg"></a> </td>
<td>
<h4>Book Features</h4><br />
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Edited exam versions:</span> play your favourite song in your Rockschool exam!</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Full transcriptions:</span> with vocal line, TAB and standard notation</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Fact Files:</span> band and artist background information with recommended further listening</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Walkthroughs:</span> hints and tips on the tricky sections of the songs</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">2 CDs:</span> with full mixes and backing tracks &#8211; exam versions and full transcriptions</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Introduction to tone:</span> authentic tone and amp settings suggestions for each track</li>
<h4>Track Listing</h4>
<ul>
<li>Surfing With The Alien <span style="font-weight: bold;">Joe Satriani</span></li>
<li>Sweet Home Alabama <span style="font-weight: bold;">Lynyrd Skynyrd</span></li>
<li>The Crying Machine <span style="font-weight: bold;">Steve Vai </span></li>
<li>Fall To Pieces <span style="font-weight: bold;">Velvet Revolver</span></li>
<li>The Pretender <span style="font-weight: bold;">Foo Fighters</span> </li>
<li>Radioactive <span style="font-weight: bold;">Kings Of Leon</span></li>
<li>Sad But True <span style="font-weight: bold;">Metallica </span></li>
<li>Back In Black <span style="font-weight: bold;">AC/DC</span></li></ul><a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01070562/details.html" target="_blank">Buy now</a> from musicroom.com</td></tr></tbody></table>
<h3>Audio Samples</h3><iframe width="100%" height="110" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F93186211&color=005db1&auto_play=false&show_artwork=false"></iframe><link href="/Resources/JavaScript/ColorBox/colorbox.css" rel="stylesheet" type="text/css" media="all" /><script src="/Resources/JavaScript/jquery-1.8.3.min.js" type="text/javascript"></script><script src="/Resources/JavaScript/ColorBox/jquery.colorbox-1.4.13.min.js" type="text/javascript"></script><script type="text/javascript"> $(document).ready(function () { $(".sampleGrade4").colorbox({ rel: 'sampleGrade4', reposition: false }); $(".sampleGrade5").colorbox({ rel: 'sampleGrade5', reposition: false }); }); $(document).ready(function () { $(".sampleGrade4").colorbox({ rel: 'sampleGrade4', reposition: false }); $(".sampleGrade5").colorbox({ rel: 'sampleGrade5', reposition: false }); }); </script>
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<div style="position: absolute; width: 9999px; visibility: hidden; display: none;"></div></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/e47jZ9WFdPY" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=196Free Guitar Lesson: How to use target notes for great sounding string bendshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/MRq7-POLDq0/newsarticle.aspx<iframe width="710" height="400" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/oyTBa3tsljo" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold; font-size: 14pt; color: #333333;">Bending in tune requires a combination of good listening skills, muscle memory and finger strength. This lesson &#8211; with TAB, video and backing tracks &#8211; will help develop all three.</span><span style="font-weight: bold; font-size: 14pt;"> </span><br />
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<td width="75%" style="padding-right: 20px"> String bends are a big part of rock and pop guitar playing, so it&#8217;s important that they are done well. You bend a string by pushing or pulling it with your finger until it reaches a pitch known as the target note, which is shown in brackets in TAB. The string is kept in contact with the fret throughout the bend. To bend in tune consistently requires a combination of good listening skills, muscle memory and finger strength. This lesson will help develop all three.<br />
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We'll start by focusing on target notes. Bending in tune can be difficult, especially while practising without any accompaniment. You can overcome this by training your ear to recognise the correct pitch. A good exercise for this is to play and hold the target note and then play the bend. Having the target note fresh in your memory will help you bend to the correct pitch.<br />
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<a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1231" target="_self"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1226" /></a>&nbsp;<br />
<span style="font-style: italic; color: #999999;">(Download every part of this tutorial including, <br />
video lesson, backing track audio and free TAB). &nbsp;&nbsp;</span></td>
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<h4><span "margin="10px&quot;" style="color: #ffffff;">&nbsp; On Record</span><br />
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<p style="margin: 8px; text-align: center;"><img align="left" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1228" style="padding-bottom: 5px" /> </p><br />
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<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #ffffff;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;'<a href="http://youtu.be/MfOnq-zXXBw" target="_self">Icarus Lives</a>&#8217; &#8211; &nbsp;Periphery</span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;'<a href="http://youtu.be/qKggnBh2Mdw" target="_blank">Highway To Hell</a>&#8217; &#8211; &nbsp;AC/DC</span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;'<a href="http://youtu.be/4vqJCOO5im4" target="_blank">Ice 9</a>&#8217; &#8211; Joe Satriani</span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;'<a href="http://youtu.be/MXp413NynFk" target="_blank">Smooth</a>&#8217; &#8211; Santana</span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #ffffff;">&nbsp;'<a href="http://youtu.be/EeGyQIgvSV0" target="_blank">Badge</a>&#8217; &#8211; Cream</span></p>
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<h4>Fig. 1 | Using a target note to bend to the correct pitch</h4>Play and hold the target note and then play the bend.&nbsp;<br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1221" /> <br />
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<h4>Fig. 2 | Phrase with target notes played as fretted notes</h4>You might even find it useful to play a phrase with a fretted note instead of a string bend so you can hear how the note should sound. <br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1222" /><br />
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<h4>Fig. 3 | Semitone bend</h4> Our last example has a semitone bend, which is a change in pitch equivalent to one fret. <br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1223" /><br />
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<h4>Fig. 4 | Extra string bend tips </h4>Play faster bends slowly and repeatedly, playing close attention to the tuning.<br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1224" /> <br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;">Do you know anyone who needs help with their string bends? Share with friends using the links at the top of the page.<br />
</span><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/MRq7-POLDq0" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=201Win a Fender Stratocaster & Roland Cube Amp with Hot Rock Guitar 4 & 5http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/SZv-ELvvERc/newsarticle.aspx<div class="MessagePadding">
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<p class="NoBottomGap">This competition has passed it's closing date so entries are no longer being accepted.</p> </div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold; font-size: 10pt;">To celebrate the launch of Hot Rock Guitar 4 &amp; 5 (Monday 17th June) we're giving you the chance to win a Fender Stratocaster and Roland Cube amp worth over &#163;600! &nbsp;</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=196" target="_blank">Hot Rock Guitar 4 &amp; 5</a> are the latest editions to our Hot Rock Series of graded rock tracks. Featuring some of best artists and guitarists of the past four decades, our Hot Rock Series contain fit for exam transcriptions and the full album transcriptions to use at school or playing at home for fun. Also included are all the same great features you can find in <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/books/guitar/hotrock/" target="_blank">Grades 1-3.</a> <br />
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<strong>Book Features:</strong>
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<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Edited exam versions:</span> play your favourite song in your Rockschool exam!</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Full transcriptions:</span> with vocal line, TAB and standard notation</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Fact Files:</span> band and artist background information with recommended further listening</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Walkthroughs:</span> hints and tips on the tricky sections of the songs</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">2 CDs:</span> with full mixes and backing tracks &#8211; exam versions and full transcriptions</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Introduction to tone:</span> authentic tone and amp settings suggestions for each track</li></ul><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=196" target="_blank">Learn more</a> about Hot Rock Guitar 4 &amp; 5<br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1218" />
<h4>Terms &amp; Conditions</h4>
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<div>1. The closing date for the competition is Sun 23rd June 2013 &amp; the winner will be contacted via the email address given (entrants via twitter will be contacted via direct message) within 7 days of the closing date.</div>
<div>2. Rockschool's decision is final</div>
<div>3. The prize is for a Fender Stratocaster - Arctic White + Roland Cube 40XL.&nbsp;</div>
<div>4. Rockschool accepts no responsibility for any damage that may occur to the prize in transit</div>
<div>5. One entry per person.</div>
<div>6. The competition is not open to Rockschool staff, or family members</div>
<div>7. By entering the competition you consent that Rockschool can publish you as a winner on the Rockschool site, Facebook page and Twitter page</div>
<div>8. Entrants under the age of 16 will need the consent of their parents or guardian</div>
<div>9. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook. You are providing your information to Rockschool and not to Facebook. The information you provide will only be used to contact you if you're a winner.</div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/SZv-ELvvERc" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=200Behind The Scenes: Hot Rock Guitar 4 & 5http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/AKLdS-8SJsI/newsarticle.aspx<span style="font-weight: bold; font-size: 14pt;">With Hot Rock Guitar 4 &amp; 5 released on the 17th June we catch up with the man behind the books, James Uings to give you a 60 second behind the scenes look into how they were made.&nbsp;</span><br />
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<h3>Hit play to get you in the mood...</h3> <iframe width="100%" height="200" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Fplaylists%2F6578651&color=003145&auto_play=false&show_artwork=true"></iframe><br />
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<h4>Q. What are the benefits of choosing a free choice piece from The Hot Rock Guitar books?</h4>Our exam versions are already graded and edited to the correct length so all you have to do is pick your favourite piece and you're ready to go!
<h4>Q. What makes Hot Rock Guitar a special addition to the Rockschool syllabus?</h4>We couldn't be happier with the tracklisting: it&#8217;s full of hit songs featuring the best guitarists to ever walk the planet.
<h4>Q. What can candidates expect to learn when playing through the pieces?</h4>There are loads of techniques to get stuck into. Well, it&#8217;s Hot &#8216;Rock&#8217; so there&#8217;s a lot of aggressive rhythm playing, especially in the heavier tracks so the picking hand will get quite a workout. Many of the songs feature a lot of string bends, so there are a lot of opportunities to improve this area.
<h4>Q. Apart from Rockschool exams how do the books benefit GCSE &amp; A Level students?</h4> Grade 4 &amp; 5 are the level required for GCSE performance pieces so our exam versions are perfect for these exams. Our full transcriptions are perfect for A levels.
<h4>Q. Which guitarists played on the books? </h4>We were very lucky to have some of the best guitarists in the country playing on this edition of Hot Rock. Charlie Griffiths (Haken) played on all the exam versions as well as some of the full versions. Steve Allsworth (Lily Allen, Rod Stewart) and Music Sales&#8217; resident guitarist, Arthur Dick played on the rest of the tracks.&nbsp;
<h4>Q. What process goes into choosing and grading the 16 tracks? </h4> The first thing to do is pick songs we think everyone will love playing. From this initial list we then remove everything that doesn't fit the grade. Once this is done we edit the track to the correct length and make any small adjustments to the part that are required to ensure it's at the right level for the grade.
<h4>Q. What research goes into writing the Fact Files section - Did you find out any crazy facts about some of artists? </h4>We research our Fact Files by scouring the internet as well as our library of books and magazines for facts and interviews with relevant musicians. Our goal is to make them as authoritative and reliable as possible. During our research for Hot Rock Guitar Grades 4 and 5 we discovered that Metallica's James Hetfield had twice been injured so badly he had to ask a guitar tech to take over his guitar duties while the band was on tour. The show must go on!
<h4>Q. Why are the vocal lines included in the full transcriptions?</h4>Vocal lines are a great thing to have. It helps you find your place in a longer song and, of course, they are great for vocalists too!
<h4>Q. Is it difficult writing the walkthroughs? What goes into them?</h4>I enjoy writing the walkthroughs. I focus on advising on techniques and pointing out tricky section without dictating specific approaches &#8211; everyone knows there&#8217;s more than one way to do thing correctly.
<h4>Q. What were your favourite tracks to record/play?</h4>&#8216;Whole Lotta Rosie&#8217; and &#8216;Iron Man' were the first two songs I learned on the guitar. Recording versions of these tracks that people will be able to play in their exams was pretty special. <br />
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<a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01070561/details.html"><img title="Hot Rock Guitar Grade 4" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=1206" style="padding-right: 20px" /></a><a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01070562/details.html"><img title="Hot Rock Guitar Grade 5" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=1207" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold; font-size: 12pt;"><br />
Hot Rock 4 &amp; 5 are available to buy&nbsp;</span><a href="http://www.musicroom.com/Rockschool" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: bold; font-size: 12pt;">now</span></a><span style="font-weight: bold; font-size: 12pt;"> from Musicroom.com. Got a Hot Rock related question? Ask away on our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Rockschool/137412866820" target="_blank">Facebook</a>&nbsp;or <a href="https://twitter.com/Rockschool" target="_blank">T</a><a href="https://twitter.com/Rockschool" target="_blank">witter</a><a href="https://twitter.com/Rockschool" target="_blank"> page</a>!&nbsp;</span><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/AKLdS-8SJsI" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=199Rockschool Digitalhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/F4cjEGLXkZE/newsarticle.aspx<iframe width="710" height="400" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/5purCLDYajA" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; font-weight: bold;">Our 2012&#8211;2018 syllabus is available to download now piece by piece from <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/rockschooldigital.html" target="_blank">musicroom.com</a> &#8211; so you only pay for what you need!</span><br />
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<td> <img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1214" style="padding-right: 20px" /></td>
<td> Rockschool prides itself on offering students and teachers a choice of materials to use in exams. Now&nbsp;we're&nbsp;offering you even more choice by making all the Exam Pieces and sections of our latest grade books available to download individually online. To view the material, search for &#8216;<a href="http://www.musicroom.com/rockschooldigital.html" target="_blank">Rockschool digital</a>&#8217; at musicroom.com, then you can browse by grade or instrument using the navigation bar on the left of the page. If you're&nbsp;already familiar with our syllabus you might prefer to search for specific pieces, in which case you can simply type the song title and &#8216;Rockschool&#8217; into musicroom&#8217;s search box (e.g. &#8216;<a href="http://www.musicroom.com/search/find.aspx?searchtext=Bonecrusher+Rockschool" target="_blank">Bonecrusher Rockschool</a>&#8217;).<br />
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Similarly, you could also search for a particular section of a grade book (e.g. &#8216;<a href="http://www.musicroom.com/search/find.aspx?searchtext=Rockschool+Digital+Drums+Grade+1+Ear+Tests" target="_blank">Rockschool Digital Drums Grade 1 Ear Tests</a>&#8217;). Each Exam Piece can be downloaded for &#163;2.99. This includes a PDF file containing the TAB as well as audio, including a full mix and a backing track. The sections (including Technical Exercises, Ear Tests, Sight Reading, Improvisation &amp; Interpretation and Quick Study Pieces) vary in price from &#163;1.99 to &#163;2.50 and include PDFs and backing tracks where appropriate.&nbsp;<span style="font-size: 10pt;">Get </span><a href="http://www.musicroom.com/rockschooldigital.html" target="_blank" style="font-size: 10pt;">downloading</a><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> on musicroom now!</span><br />
<h4>Band Exams</h4>This is especially useful for anyone who intends to sit a Band Exam. Our grade books for guitar, bass and drums contain the same songs at Grades 3, 5 and 8, so band members can learn their parts individually before practising and performing the pieces as a group in the exam. If, for example, you owned the Guitar Grade 3 book you could supplement this with the Bass and Drums pieces rather than pay the full price of the Grade 3 Bass and Drums books. </td> </tr> </tbody></table>
<h4>2012&#8211;2018 Syllabus</h4>Rockschool&#8217;s 2012&#8211;2018 syllabus is our bestsounding yet. We employed some of the most sought after musicians to ensure our tunes are the most authentic on offer. Our pieces have been written and performed by session musicians who have worked with some of the biggest names in rock, metal and pop, including David Bowie, Bullet For My Valentine and Madonna. The syllabus was produced by Nick Davis, a Grammy-nominated producer who has worked with artists such as Genesis, Deep Purple, Bj&#246;rk and XTC.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/F4cjEGLXkZE" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=197Level 4 Creative Practitioners Student Lauren Wright Playlisted On Radio 1http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/h6ANtxSzjgs/newsarticle.aspx<img align="right" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1217" style="padding-left: 20px; padding-bottom: 40px" /> <span style="font-size: 12pt; font-weight: bold;">Lauren Wright, ex-Level 4 Creative Practitioner student at Kidderminster College has achieved something that many established artists find difficult - her new single 'Kiss Me' has been playlisted on BBC Radio 1. </span><br />
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The college has a history of producing successful acts in association with Rockschool including much hyped ex Rockschool Level 2 learners <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SWIMDEEPUK" target="_blank">Swim Deep</a>&nbsp;who release their debut album this July. Andy Edwards, Music Course Leader said, <br />
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<span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">&quot;I'm so pleased with what Lauren has achieved through both talent and hard work. I hope this shows that what we are doing here works.&quot;</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><br />
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Lauren's debut single &quot;<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_zlyGzpFs70" target="_blank">Kiss Me</a>&quot; has been added to BBC Radio 1's playlist and is playing now!<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Congratulations Lauren!&nbsp;</span><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/h6ANtxSzjgs" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=198COMPETITION: Win a Complete Set of Guitar Books Worth Over £300http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/GFFTwIF28CU/newsarticle.aspx<div class="MessagePadding">
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To celebrate our involvement with the Edinburgh Guitar and Music Festival we're giving you the chance to WIN a complete set of Guitar books including the hotly anticipated Hot Rock Guitar 4 &amp; 5 books - that's a total of 16 books worth over &#163;300!&nbsp;<br />
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The <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=192" target="_blank">Edinburgh Guitar &amp; Music Festival</a> is set to take place on the 25th, 26th &amp; 27th of May, where we'll be offering one-off masterclasses, band workshops, an exclusive showcase of Hot Rock Guitar Grades 4&amp;5 AND discount across our complete range of grade books...<a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=192" target="_blank">find out more</a>.<br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1195" /><br />
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<h4>Terms &amp; Conditions</h4>
<ol>
<li>Closing date for the competition is 27th May 2013 the winner will be contacted via the email address given (entrants via twitter will be contacted via direct message) within 7 days of the closing date. </li>
<li>Rockschool's decision is final </li>
<li>The prize is for a complete set of Rockschool Guitar Books; Guitar Grades Debut - 8 (2012 Syllabus). 2012-2018 Guitar Companion Guide, 2012-2018 Guitar Technical Handbook. Hot Rock Guitar Grades 1 -5.</li>
<li> Rockschool accepts no responsibility for any damage that may occur to the prize in transit</li>
<li> One entry per person. </li>
<li> The competition is not open to Rockschool staff, or family members </li>
<li> By entering the competition you consent that Rockschool can publish you as a winner on the Rockschool site, Facebook page and Twitter page</li>
<li>Entrants under the age of 16 will need the consent of their parents or guardian</li>
<li>This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook or Twitter. You are providing your information to Rockschool and not to Facebook or Twitter. The information you provide will only be used to contact your if you're a winner.&nbsp;</li></ol><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/GFFTwIF28CU" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=195Join Us At The Edinburgh Guitar Festival Sat 25th & Sun 26th May 2013http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/ozJuKZSw848/newsarticle.aspx<span style="font-size: 14pt;">We'll be offering one-off master classes, band workshops, an exclusive showcase of Hot Rock Guitar Grades 4&amp;5 AND discount across our complete range of grade books.</span><br />
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Venue:</span>&nbsp;<a href="http://www.edinburghguitarandmusicfestival.co.uk/the%20edinburgh%20guitar%20and%20music%20festival%20venue.htm" target="_blank">Edinburgh Corn Exchange</a>&nbsp;<span style="font-weight: bold;">Date:</span>&nbsp;Sat 25th &amp; Sun 26th May 2013<br />
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<a href="http://www.edinburghguitarandmusicfestival.co.uk/" target="_blank"><img title="Find out more" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1158" /></a> <br />
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The new <a href="http://www.edinburghguitarandmusicfestival.co.uk/" target="_blank">Edinburgh Guitar &amp; Music Festival</a> will be the largest of its kind to be held in Scotland and will take place from the 25th to 27th May 2013 in the historic Corn Exchange. Aiming to attract participants and visitors from all over the world, there will be an extensive programme of world-class performances, seminars and competitions as well as a trade exhibition. Headline artists announced include <a href="http://www.sandithom.com/" target="_blank">Sandi Thom</a>, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/artist/jan-akkerman" target="_blank">Jan Akkerman</a> and <a href="http://www.donniemunro.co.uk/" target="_blank">Donnie Munro</a>.&nbsp;<br />
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Best yet, we'll be there offering one-off master classes from metal guru, Charlie&nbsp;Griffiths&nbsp;and our bass expert Stuart Clayton. The Rockschool band will also be on hand giving you a performance based workshop plus 10 song set of some of the best tunes from the 2012 Syllabus and hotly anticipated Hot Rock Guitar 4&amp;5.This is your opportunity to&nbsp;get some great new hints and tips and&nbsp;experience some of the <span style="font-weight: bold;">best tracks</span> from the <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/2012syllabus" target="_blank">2012 Syllabus</a> live and loud.&nbsp;<br />
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<a href="http://www.edinburghguitarandmusicfestival.co.uk/cart.php" target="_blank"><img align="left" title="Buy a ticket" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1191" style="padding-right: 20px" /></a><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=195"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1197" /> </a> <br />
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<h3>Sat 25th -&nbsp;Metal Techniques Master Class with Charlie Griffiths</h3> <strong>Venue:</strong> Edinburgh Corn Exchange <ahref="http: www.edinburghguitarandmusicfestival.co.uk="" the%20edinburgh%20guitar%20and%20music%20festival%20venue.htm"="" target="_blank">(<a href="http://www.edinburghguitarandmusicfestival.co.uk/the%20edinburgh%20guitar%20and%20music%20festival%20venue.htm" target="_blank">Baron Suite</a></ahref="http:>) <span style="font-weight: bold;">Date:</span> Sat 25th 2013<br />
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<img align="left" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1173" style="padding-right: 20px" /> Rockschool&#8217;s rock and metal specialist <a href="http://www.icmp.co.uk/staffDetails.asp?ID=75&Dept=Guitar" target="_blank">Charlie Griffiths</a> will be serving up guitar master classes on metal technique and theory, while giving invaluable advice on how to play some of the more challenging Rockschool tunes.&nbsp;<br />
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Graduating from the Guitar Institute in 1995, he was incredibly lucky to study under renowned players such as <a href="http://www.icmp.co.uk/staffDetails.asp?ID=57&Dept=Visiting" target="_blank">Hugh Burns</a>, Dave Kilminster, Iain Scott and <a href="http://www.shaunbaxter.com/" target="_blank">Shaun Baxter</a>. He now teaches at <a href="http://www.icmp.co.uk/" target="_blank">ICMP</a> in London. As a transcriber and contributor to Total Guitar, Guitarist and Guitar Techniques magazines Charlie has had the opportunity to interview and pick the brains of all his guitar heroes such as Yngwie, Petrucci, Vai and Satch to name but a few. As a session player Charlie has performed with diverse acts such as Gareth Gates, John Cleese and Dave Lombardo of Slayer (although not at the same time). His main love is writing, recording and touring with his progressive rock band Haken.&nbsp;<br />
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<strong>Check out Charlie playing Guitar Grade 7 tune, '</strong><strong><a href="http://youtu.be/KBPzGD5q-74" target="_blank">The Pants Era</a></strong>
<h3>Sat 25th -&nbsp;Master your Slap Bass Technique with Stuart Clayton</h3><strong>Venue:</strong>&nbsp;Edinburgh Corn Exchange (<a href="http://www.edinburghguitarandmusicfestival.co.uk/the%20edinburgh%20guitar%20and%20music%20festival%20venue.htm" target="_blank">Baron Suite</a>) <strong>Date: </strong>Sat 25th 2013<br />
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<img align="left" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1174" style="padding-right: 20px" />Stuart will be running through some of the best bass pieces from the Rockschool 2012 Bass Syllabus. Learn all the specific techniques and theory used in Rockschool&#8217;s later grades from this bass master, as well as more in-depth concepts on slap bass.<br />
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<a href="http://stuartclayton.com/" target="_blank">Stuart Clayton</a> has been working as a professional musician for over ten years. He has been writing for the UK&#8217;s Bass Guitar Magazine since its first issue, and has interviewed bassists such as Stuart Hamm, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_King_(musician)" target="_blank">Mark King</a>, and Alain Caron. He has written seven instructional books for Sanctuary Publishing and Music Sales, including 100 Tips for Bass Guitar You Should Have Been Told, Giants of Bass and Bass Styles. Stuart has toured all over the world with legendary drummer Carl Palmer, and currently works as the Head of Bass at <a href="http://www.bimm.co.uk/bristol" target="_blank">BIMM Bristol</a>. Stuart is the bass specialist for Rockschool for whom he writes and records exam pieces including Grade 7 piece &#8216;<a href="http://youtu.be/noPE6fp7e6c" target="_blank">Thumb King&#8217;</a>. Stuart also writes for and runs Bassline Publishing, a small company specialising in bass guitar tuition and transcription books. He has published transcription books on artists such as Level 42, Chic, Sister Sledge, The Who, The Brand New Heavies, and Kiss. He has authored several books on bass technique including <span style="font-style: italic;">Ultimate Slap Bass</span>, <span style="font-style: italic;">The Bass Player&#8217;s Guide to Scales &amp; Modes</span> and <span style="font-style: italic;">Solo Arrangements for Electric Bass</span>.<br />
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<strong>Check out Stuart playing Bass Grade 7 tune, '</strong><strong><a href="http://youtu.be/noPE6fp7e6c" target="_blank">Thumb King</a></strong><strong>'.</strong><br />
<h3>Sun 26th -&nbsp;Band Master Classes</h3> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Venue:</span>&nbsp;Edinburgh Corn Exchange (<a href="http://www.edinburghguitarandmusicfestival.co.uk/the%20edinburgh%20guitar%20and%20music%20festival%20venue.htm" target="_blank">Baron Suite</a>)&nbsp;<span style="font-weight: bold;">Date:</span>&nbsp;Sun 26th 2013<br />
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On Sunday the Rockschool band, featuring George Wood (guitar), Becky Baldwin (bass) and Miguel Andrews (drums), will be offering band master classes. The guys will be playing all the best tunes from the 2012 syllabus and exclusively showcasing some of the new tracks from the hotly anticipated Hot Rock Guitar Grade 4 &amp; 5 books. They will be offering hints, tips &nbsp;and guidance about playing together as a band and learning to work as a group. These high-energy, innovative and interactive master-classes, will give you the opportunity to get to grips with some of the jaw-dropping tracks on the new syllabus and listen to them played live. Plus they&#8217;ll be plenty of opportunities to ask questions and meet the band.<br />
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Check out the Rockschool band performing Grade 5 track,<strong>&nbsp;'</strong><strong><a href="http://youtu.be/ks83h8e87RY" target="_blank">Geek</a></strong><strong>'</strong><br />
<h4>The Rockschool band</h4> <br />
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<td width="33%" "="" 10px"="" style=" padding-right:="><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1176" /> <br />
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<strong>GEORGE WOOD</strong> <br />
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George is the youngest member of the Rockschool band and is studying for his degree at ICMP. He gigs regularly in two bands &amp; played at last year's Brownstock Festival. George has also appeared in video lessons for <a href="http://www.musicradar.com/totalguitar" target="_blank">Total Guitar Magazine</a>.<br />
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<td width="33%" style="padding-right: 10px"> <img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1177" /> <br />
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<strong>BECKY BALDWIN</strong><br />
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A graduate of <a href="http://www.bimm.co.uk/bristol" target="_blank">BIMM</a>&nbsp;Becky plays regularly for several bands including Control The Storm who played at Bloodstock in 2012. She has also contributed to <a href="http://www.musicradar.com/totalguitar" target="_blank">Total Guitar Magazine</a>.<br />
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<td width="33%"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1178" /> <br />
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<strong>MIGUEL ANDREWS</strong> <br />
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Miguel has been gigging professionally since he was a teenager including tackling a challenging role in an established Police tribute band. He currently plays in four different bands as well as depping for several others.<br />
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<a href="http://www.edinburghguitarandmusicfestival.co.uk/cart.php" target="_blank"><img align="left" title="Buy a ticket" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1191" style="padding-right: 20px" /></a><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=195"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1197" /></a><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/ozJuKZSw848" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=192Free Bass Lesson: Using Rests For Better Basslineshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/t0KIAU1DMWw/newsarticle.aspx<h3>Video Tutorial</h3> <iframe width="710" height="400" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/4MwKkFaq3w8" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
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<span style="color: #666666; font-size: 19px;">Get your students playing grooves with our free tutorial on rests for Bass, including backing tracks, free tab and video walkthrough!</span><br />
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<td><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=1149" style="padding-right: 5px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp;<a id="hypSyllabusGuide" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1150">Download this tutorial<br />
</a></span>&nbsp;<span style="font-weight: bold;">Size:</span> 116MB<br />
&nbsp;<span style="font-weight: bold;">Media:&nbsp;</span><span style="font-style: italic;">Video, Audio &amp; PDF</span></td> </tr></tbody></table><br />
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We've all heard the advice that goes <span style="font-weight: bold;">&#8216;in music what you don&#8217;t play is as important as what you do&#8217;</span>. Some of us may even have offered the same wisdom to a novice student. The problem is that this advice is often given without a clear explanation of what it really means. In this lesson we will use rests to demonstrate that leaving space between notes (i.e. not playing) can help to produce <span style="font-weight: bold;">stronger musical parts for bass</span> &#8211; though the same, of course, applies to any instrument.<br />
<h3>On Record</h3> Check out some of the bass lines used in this tutorial on YouTube below.<br />
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<li>'<a href="http://youtu.be/6rb13ksYO0s" target="_blank">Pressure Drop</a>&#8217; &#8211; Toots &amp; The Maytals</li>
<li>&#8216;<a href="http://youtu.be/qXNsINpnqSA" target="_blank">Gz And Hustlas</a>&#8217; &#8211; Snoop Doggy Dogg</li>
<li>&#8216;<a href="http://youtu.be/ZzlgJ-SfKYE" target="_blank">Start Me Up</a>&#8217; &#8211; The Rolling Stones</li>
<li>&#8216;<a href="http://youtu.be/IST6qRfVqwY" target="_blank">The Payback</a>&#8217; &#8211; James Brown</li>
<li>&#8216;<a href="http://youtu.be/AkFqg5wAuFk" target="_blank">Walk</a>&#8217; &#8211; Pantera</li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table>
<h3>Example Exercises</h3><span style="font-weight: bold;">The first example (Fig. 1)</span> consists of steady quarter notes and is followed by a variation of the same bassline where the adding of rests produces a different feel (Fig. 2). These first two examples use the same backing track so students can play along and get an appreciation of how the introduction of rests can affect a groove. <br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=1151" /><br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=1152" /><br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">The last two examples (Figs. 3 and 4)</span> follow the same format, only this time eighth notes and eighth-note rests are used to turn an ordinary bassline into a hip hop groove as shown in the video tutorial. <br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=1153" /><br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=1154" /><br />
<br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/t0KIAU1DMWw" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=193Period B Entries Accepted Until April 15thhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/i_-gsPiCuWY/newsarticle.aspx<span style="font-size: 14pt; color: #333333;">We know organising and planning over the Easter period can be tough so we're&nbsp;officially waiving late fees for Period B&nbsp;(summer period May 1 to July 31) up until Monday April 15th.&nbsp;</span>
<h3>How To Enter</h3>Simply <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/enteronline/" target="_blank">enter online&nbsp;now</a>&nbsp;or fill out an <a shape="rect" href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/entryforms/" target="_blank">entry form</a> and post it to us along with a cheque to the address below. <br />
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<strong>Exam Entries</strong><br />
Rockschool Ltd.<br />
Harlequin House (Ground Floor)<br />
7 High Street, Teddington<br />
Middlesex<br />
TW11 8EE<br />
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<a shape="rect" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/contactus/" target="_blank"> Contact Us </a>
<h3>Which Syllabus? </h3>
<h4>2006-2012 Syllabus</h4>Period B is the last period you can sit an exam using the 2006-2012 Syllabus. Fear not though, if you love the 2006 Syllabus as much as we do you can still use the performance pieces as <a shape="rect" href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/gradedmusicexams/additionalinformation/resources/freechoicepieces/" target="_blank">Free Choice Pieces</a> in your exam.
<h4>2012-2018 Syllabus</h4> Yes you can use it! The <a shape="rect" href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/2012syllabus" target="_blank">2012-2018 Syllabus</a> was released in May 2012 and is available for exam use now! <br />
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<a shape="rect" href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/enteronline/" target="_blank">Enter Online now</a><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/i_-gsPiCuWY" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=191Band Exams - Updatedhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/S2TSnHvnzWU/newsarticle.aspx<h3>World's First Band Exams Feature Exciting New Repertoire</h3><br />
<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/62330743?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" width="710" height="400" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen="" mozallowfullscreen="" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
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<em><span style="font-weight: bold;">(The Rockschool Band Performing Grade 3 Track &#8216;Overrated&#8217;)</span></em>
<h3>Introducing Rockschool Band Exams</h3> <img align="right" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=1117" style="padding-left: 20px" />Playing in a band is an essential part of the rock and pop experience - from Led Zeppelin at London's 02 arena to jamming at home with your friends. Our <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/gradedmusicexams/bandexams/" target="_blank">Band Exams</a> offer students the opportunity to turn all those hours spent in band practice into accredited qualifications &#8211; in addition to those earned individually from our Guitar, Bass and Drums grade books. This makes them perfect for school bands practising during their lunch hours and teachers organising end-of-term concerts. <br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold; font-size: 10pt; color: #333333;">Rockschool's groundbreaking grade exams for guitar, bass and drums were launched in 1992 and featured Band Exams alongside the individual instrumental grades.</span><br />
<h4>2012 Syllabus</h4> The <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/2012syllabus" target="_blank">2012&#8211;2018 syllabus</a> is our best sounding yet and is full of specially written pieces that students will love to play. Our Guitar, Bass and Drums <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/rockschool" target="_blank">grade books</a> contain the same songs at Grades 3, 5 and 8, so that all the parts are at the same standard. Band members can learn their parts individually before practising and performing the pieces as a group.&nbsp;<br />
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<a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/gradedmusicexams/bandexams/" target="_blank">Band Exams</a> are Performance Certificates where groups perform five pieces from our grade books or three free choice pieces. There are no other tests or exercises in the exam. Each band member has the opportunity to improvise during Band Exams, lending yet more real world skills to our examinations. Successful candidates at Grade 8 will attain 55&#8211;75 <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/generalinformation/ucaspoints/" target="_blank">UCAS points</a>&nbsp;for their efforts.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br />
<h4>Digital Downloads</h4> Our graded pieces are now available to download individually by instrument as PDF and audio files for &#163;2.99 from <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/rockschooldigital.html" target="_blank">musicroom.com</a>. So if you own the Guitar Grade 3 book you could supplement this with the Bass and Drums pieces rather than pay the full price of the Bass and Drums Grade 3 books. It&#8217;s an ideal way to try Rockschool&#8217;s new Syllabus and our Band Exams.<br />
<h4>How To Enter</h4>Visit our <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/gradedmusicexams/bandexams/" target="_blank">Band Exams</a> page for more information, including how to enter. Alternatively, <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/contactus/" target="_blank">contact us</a> on 0845 460 4747 if you are calling from within the UK or (0)20 8843 8220 if you are calling from overseas.
<h3>Related Products</h3>
<p>You may find the following books useful for preparing for the Guitar Grade 3 exam:</p>
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<span class="BookCoverTitle"> Rockschool Guitar<br />
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<span class="Bold">Price:</span> &#163;14.99<br />
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<span class="BookCoverTitle"> Hot Rock<br />
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<td colspan="3" class="RelatedProductsFooter"></td> </tr> </tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/S2TSnHvnzWU" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=190Free Guitar Lesson: How to play chords in the guitar grade examshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/g526FTuUTU8/newsarticle.aspx<font color="#333333" size="3"><b>This video lesson and free PDF offer tips on how to prepare for playing chords in the Technical Exercises of Rockschool grade exams, including strumming and arpeggiating.</b></font><br />
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<td><img src="/Resources/Images/IconAdobeReader.gif" style="padding-right: 5px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><a id="hypSyllabusGuide" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1181">Download This Tutorial</a><br />
(121KB, 1 page, .pdf)</td>
<td><img src="/Resources/Images/IconZip.gif" style="padding-left: 20px; padding-right: 5px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><a id="hypSyllabusGuide" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1139">Download Backing Track</a><br />
(1.1MB, 1 track, .zip)</td> </tr></tbody></table> <br />
<img align="right" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1134" style="padding-left: 20px; padding-bottom: 10px" /> <br />
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Playing open chords in the Technical Exercises section of the Debut to Grade 2 exams is simply a matter of strumming a series of chords once each when prompted by the examiner. However, in Grades 3&#8211;8 students are required to play each chord twice: first strummed then arpeggiated, which means candidates should pick each note individually. These notes have no rhythm in the notation; however, students should try to play evenly and avoid leaving large or uneven gaps between too many of the notes.<br />
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<span style="font-size: 10pt; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">&#8220;This technique of mixing strumming and arpeggios will help students to play songs that they like and create their own guitar parts&#8221;</span><br />
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When candidates practise arpeggiating chords they should aim to always pick the notes at the same speed so that they get into a routine where they play the chords the same way every time. This will give them a sense of being prepared when they get to the big day and have to cope with the inevitable exam day nerves.<br />
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This technique of mixing strumming and arpeggios, which is expanded upon in Fig. 2, is far from just an exercise. Mastering it will help students to play lots of songs they like (see &#8216;On Record&#8217;, right) and prepare them for creating their own guitar parts.<br />
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<h3>Video Tutorial</h3> <iframe width="710" height="400" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/YygN2umj_H8" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
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<h3>Examples</h3> <img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1135" /><br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1136" /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/g526FTuUTU8" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=189Period A Exam Advicehttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/MRmKNTwczhs/newsarticle.aspx<span style="font-size: 14pt;">Everyone gets nervous before sitting an exam; it&#8217;s all part of being a musician. For those of you sitting an exam this period here's a few choice bits of advice for you all, good luck!&nbsp;<br />
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<h3>Practicing</h3>
<h4>Organise and Plan</h4>Set out exactly what you&#8217;re going to work on in each practice session, whether its scales, chords or rudiments give yourself ample time to polish each section of your exam.<br />
<h4>Click</h4>Even if you aren't planning to play to the click in your exam, playing to a metronome is the best way to improve your timing.&nbsp;
<h4>Posture</h4>Check your posture, a lot of players can develop bad posture and technique due to the way they sit at/with their instrument. Practice playing in front of a mirror or record yourself to ensure you&#8217;re not slouching or developing bad technique. We always advise you seek professional advice from a qualified music teacher if you are unsure of your playing position.
<h4>Bite size</h4>Try to divide your chosen tunes into manageable chunks, practice each section slowly at first and work towards the required tempo. Always target the tricky bits first and the rest of the track will follow. The Walkthrough sections in the <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/2012syllabus" target="_blank">2012 Syllabus</a> are perfect for this approach and allow you to work through each part at a time. &nbsp;
<h4>Diversity</h4>Try to vary the styles you play in, this will help develop creativity and nurture good technique.
<h4>Confidence</h4> Practice in front of friends and family to boost your confidence, performance skills &amp; stage presence.
<h3>The Exam</h3>
<h4>Be early</h4> Arrive at least 10mins before your exam and you&#8217;ll feel a lot more comfortable before going into the exam room. Having time to relax before you go in will get you in the right mind-set.
<h4>Get comfy</h4>Make sure your're comfortable before you begin, change the stool/seat position if you have to &#8211; the examiner won&#8217;t mind!
<h4>Be confident</h4> Remember the examiner's there to help, if you&#8217;ve got any questions before or during the exam, don&#8217;t be scared to ask.&nbsp;
<h4>Stay cool</h4> Keep cool and hydrated, take some water with you into the exam.
<h4>Play with passion</h4> The examiner sees hundreds of candidates every year, play with enthusiasm and love for your instrument and they're sure to take notice.
<h3>General Musicianship Questions &amp; Ear Test</h3>
<h4>Learn your instrument inside out</h4> The examiner wants to see you know the required amount of knowledge about your instrument and the genres specific to each grade. Taking time to research all the <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/gradedmusicexams/additionalinformation/resources/generalmusicianshipquestions/" target="_blank">general musicianship questions</a> and going that extra step will help you in achieving that top mark.&nbsp;
<h4>Get listening</h4>Ask your teacher to play back specific notes and rhythms so you can get your ear used to hearing a range of melodies played in different rhythms and varying dynamics. <br />
<h4>Take responsibility</h4>If you're having trouble hearing the backing track don&#8217;t be afraid to ask your examiner to adjust the volume. Being able to hear each note clearly will help you with your recall.&nbsp;
<h4>It's OK to hum!</h4>Practice humming some of the aural test scales in your head before entering the exam room this will make it a lot easier when recalling the melody when asked. You can also hum along to the melody during the test. <br />
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If you would like more help or advice before taking any Rockschool Exam. Please contact <a href="mailto:info@rockschool.co.uk">info@rockschool.co.uk</a>&nbsp;or call 0845 460 4747<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/MRmKNTwczhs" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=185National Learn To Play Day: Sat 16 March 2013http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/1RtXpJoWFYs/newsarticle.aspx<span style="font-size: 14pt; color: #545151;">Music stores all over the UK will be offering everyone free taster music lessons, across a huge range of instruments from guitars, pianos and drums to ukuleles, saxophones and bassoons, on National Learn to Play Day, Saturday </span><span style="color: #545151; font-size: 19px;">16 March</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;">.&nbsp;</span><br />
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Comedian and drummer Al Murray, and a host of other rock stars, musicians and celebrities, have lent their support to the campaign, which aims to give anyone who&#8217;d like to try their hand at making music, the opportunity to do so.The event is timely as a recent survey by Arts Council England&#8217;s &#8216;Take it away&#8217; scheme, in conjunction with parenting website Netmums, found that nearly three-quarters of parents (73%) thought access to a free taster lesson would be a good way to encourage their child to take up an instrument.<br />
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There is hope for the older would-be musician as well. 73% of parents say they learned to play an instrument as a child, but no longer play. However, over 80% of them wished they still did! So a free taster session would also be a great way to get adults back into the swing too. <br />
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Announcing his support of the campaign, Al Murray said; &#8220;I am really pleased to be able to be involved with this initiative. Learn to Play Day has to be one of the best ideas I have heard of in a long time. Playing a musical instrument is life enhancing as well as huge fun! Giving a child &#8211; or anyone &#8211; the opportunity to play is giving them a gift for life, and the chance to have a free taster session on virtually any instrument has to be a great start!&#8221; <br />
<h3>National Learn To Play Day 2012</h3> <iframe width="710" height="400" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/EJ6fbSrdgTk" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
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The <a href="http://www.learntoplayday.com/" target="_blank">National Learn to Play Day</a> is organised by the charity <a href="http://www.musicforall.org.uk/" target="_blank">Music for All</a> in partnership with the <a href="http://www.musiciansunion.org.uk/" target="_blank">Musicians&#8217; Union</a>, Arts Council England&#8217;s <a href="http://www.takeitaway.org.uk/" target="_blank">Take it away</a> scheme, <a href="http://www.musicteachers.co.uk/" target="_blank">MusicTeachers.co.uk</a> and <a href="https://www.musicradar.com" target="_blank">Musicradar.com</a>.<br />
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<span style="font-style: italic;">&#8220;The event is designed to welcome people into music shops and inspire them to get playing&#8221; said <span style="font-weight: bold;">Paul McManus, CEO of Music for All</span>, &#8220;People are often surprised to discover that they ARE musical and simply need a musical &#8220;experience&#8221; to get them started.&#8221;<br />
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&#8220;We ran the first Learn to Play Day last year in just 60 stores and reckon that over 10,000 people enjoyed a free taster lesson with a huge number, up to 40% in some areas, continuing their interest afterwards. This year will be a much bigger, truly national event, with people having an opportunity to try an instrument in many more music stores all over the country.&#8221;</span><br />
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As well as Al Murray, a number of musical celebrities have lent their support to the Learn to Play Day, including Pink Floyd&#8217;s Nick Mason. Commenting on the National Learn to Play Day Nick said; &#8220;Learning to play an instrument is something rather more than a passport to a TV talent show. And it doesn't have to be a Fender Strat or a Steinway Grand to join... For the price of a ukulele or tin whistle you can both make and impress friends - and enjoy yourself more than you can possibly imagine. I know this - I've been doing it for 45 years now, and it still doesn't feel like a job!&quot;<br />
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Al Murray, supported the first Learn to Play Day in 2012 by giving drumming lessons at Chappell&#8217;s of Bond Street in London on the day. He will be doing the same again this year, and said of the event; &#8220;It was brilliant! All these people who dreamed of being the next Phil Collins or Nick Mason had a go and many of them enjoyed it so much they went away confident that they would carry on drumming.&#8221; <br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;">The Rockschool centre for Bilbao, MrJam is the first ever centre in Spain to offer the Rockschool Vocational Qualification suite. Starting today they&#8217;ve organised a 4 day exchange programme with Shrewsbury College of Arts &amp; Technology here in the UK.</span><br />
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From February 26 to March 1, <a href="http://www.mrjam.com/" target="_blank">MrJam</a> will host students from the college and will be putting on bi-lingual masterclasses and jam sessions tailored to share skills and techniques between the two centres.</span><br />
<h4>Masterclasses</h4> Over the course of the 4 days, MrJam and <a href="http://www.shrewsbury.ac.uk/" target="_blank">Shrewsbury College</a> have organized four differently themed masterclasses, with the aim of establishing shared knowledge among teachers and students from both schools. Throughout Wednesday 27 and Thursday 28 teachers from both centres will be responsible for providing various masterclasses, aimed at English and Spanish students.<br />
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The focus of these will be remixing digital sound, sound for film, podcasts, music editing in Ableton with the sessions concluding in a final gig with groups from each of the centres performing. This is a great opportunity for different cultural ideas and concepts to be shared &#8211; an essential element in any musician&#8217;s progress. The joint musical experience will mean the exchange of different techniques and abilities and is a great opportunity for all involved.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/Q-0_0-IoNNY" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=187How To Improve Your Practice Efficiencyhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/Q2BEdcZOygs/newsarticle.aspx<span style="font-size: 14pt;">At the start of the New Year there&#8217;s nothing like a few tips to help you get back into shape and really make the most out of your practice, because let&#8217;s face it&#8230;you&#8217;re busy people!</span>
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Practice in shorter, more focused time slots</h4> You&#8217;ll often hear about all the big name musicians practising for hours every day, while this might seem like the best option, trust us it&#8217;s not! Practising in 20 minute time slots with a break in-between is proven to be the most effective practice method. It will also teach you to be more disciplined and target the weaker parts of playing or singing. <br />
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<h4>Set your goals</h4> Set out what you want to achieve before you start your practice; giving yourself a smaller work load with attainable outcomes is ideal as you will get a confidence boost when your goals are completed. Take note of what you achieve during each practice &#8211; this can be really helpful later down the line when you want to see how far you&#8217;ve come! <img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1075" />
<h4>Slow down</h4> If you want to get the most out of practising your scales, technical exercises and rudiments, play to a click slightly slower than you're comfortable with then gradually build the tempo (by say 5bpm a time). This way your muscle memory will have time to react, progress and build. <br />
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Be your own boss </h4> Don&#8217;t wait until your next lesson to work through a problem or potential pitfall. Being your own boss is just as important as seeking advice from others; reaching out and finding new teaching methods and musical genres is what it&#8217;s all about. Don&#8217;t be scared to find something out for yourself, you&#8217;ll always have your teacher to fall back on if at first you don&#8217;t succeed! <br />
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Break tunes into sections</h4> As you move onto the upper grades the tunes will become considerably longer and more complex. It may seem simple but breaking them into easily manageably chunks will mean you can learn a piece a lot quicker and focus on the harder parts. <br />
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<span style="font-style: italic;">&quot;Chop it up. Invariably, there'll be parts you can play better than others. So take the parts that are giving you difficulty and work on them, but work on them independent of the other parts.&quot; -&nbsp;</span><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">John Petrucci, 'Dream Theatre'.</span><br />
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Create a practice space that&#8217;s conducive to your own development</h4> Did you know that you&#8217;re twice as likely to want to practice and stay focused if you feel comfortable in your environment? Make sure you have a practice space at home; whether it&#8217;s a bedroom, conservatory, basement, shed or spare room you really feel relaxed in. If you can&#8217;t find anywhere at home then free spaces at your local youth club or practice studios could be the answer. <br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1084" /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/Q2BEdcZOygs" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=182Candidate Stories: Ben Mundellhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/RLiweKt88_I/newsarticle.aspx<a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=1077"><img title="Ben Mundell" align="left" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=1079" style="padding-right: 15px; padding-bottom: 14px" /></a><span style="font-size: 14pt;">At the age of just 8&nbsp;Ben Mundell&nbsp;is one of the latest candidates to surpass expectation passing his Drums Grade 3 exam last period with a 90% Distinction.</span>&nbsp;<br />
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Ben, from Daventry in Northamptonshire has been drumming for just 18 months and&nbsp;became interested in drumming quite by accident. As a 6 year old he was given a toy drum kit which was part of a console game. He quickly showed his natural talent when drumming along to the game and his parents decided to see how he would do on a real kit and took him along to see a drum tutor.<br />
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On seeing him play on a drum kit for the first time, two tutors wanted to help with his tuition and since then, Stewart Manley based in Brackley and Warren Brunskill based in Towcester have nurtured his talent to the point of proudly seeing him pass with flying colours on his first ever exam.<br />
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Ben's practice schedule is quite relaxed, spending several hours a week behind the kit. The view at Ben&#8217;s age is to be fluid with his teaching and try to keep it fun as well as technically challenging, which is the principle that Stewart and Warren successfully apply when teaching Ben.<br />
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<span style="font-size: 10pt;">Ben loves playing with other musicians and wants to play in a band at some point in the future. His musical influences include The Beatles, The Foo Fighters, Kasabian and Muse, however his tastes are varied and cover rock, pop, blues and he is a big fan of Jazz music.</span><br />
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Ben takes his kit seriously as well and has an electro-acoustic hybrid kit at home, consisting of a Sonor acoustic kit converted using mesh heads and red shot triggers. The addition of Yamaha cymbals and a Yamaha drum module completes the kit. <br />
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A big congratulations goes to Ben for this amazing achievement, if you've got a story of your son, daughter or candidate you'd like us to hear, send it to <a href="mailto: brand@rockschool.co.uk" target="_blank">brand@rockschool.co.uk</a><br />
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<img title="Ben Mundell Kit" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=1078" /><br />
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<br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/RLiweKt88_I" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=183Groove Factory Named First Roland Academy Centrehttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/inJGOfL_Oxg/newsarticle.aspx<span style="font-size: 14pt;">This month Groove Factory in Udine became the first centre of the newly formed Roland Academy Project. </span><br />
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The project which aims to bring musical excellence in teaching and performance named The Groove Factory (the biggest Rockschool centre of its sort) as one of its first of the project. The centre already has a&nbsp;marvellous&nbsp;record for producing great musical talent, but with the introduction of Roland they hope to incorporate state of the art equipment with world class teaching. &nbsp;<br />
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Here are just some of the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.thegroovefactory.it/photogallery/?album=11&gallery=15" target="_blank">pictures</a> and videos from the launch which saw an evening showcase of some of the top talent from the academy.&nbsp;<br />
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Christian Giglio covering Dave Weckl</h4>Christian Giglio is just 10 years old but does Dave Weckl proud here with some lightning fast chops and some beautifully executed ghost notes. <br />
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<iframe width="710" height="400" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/dtX-aX36yVo" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/inJGOfL_Oxg" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=184Candidate Stories - Ayla Gezmishttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/hfHdAWRfX6U/newsarticle.aspxWhen we caught up with rock star in the marking Ayla Gezmis last February she had just passed her Rockschool Grade 5 with merit. No more than a year down the road and Ayla has just passed her Guitar Grade 8 exam, but it wasn't without dedication, hard work and persistence from her father.&nbsp;<br />
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Ayla had hourly 1 to 1 lessons twice a week from her guitar teacher Dan Clarke. On top of this her dad encouraged her to practice everyday for half an hour to develop her technical ability. As a reward for her patience and persistence, he's very kindly bought her a brand new Gibson guitar - not bad ahy?&nbsp;<br />
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A huge congratulations goes out to Ayla from everyone here at Rockschool, she now joins the&nbsp;exclusive&nbsp;group of candidates to achieve a Grade 8 at this age.<br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1062" /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/hfHdAWRfX6U" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=1802012 International Tourshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/cG0SClH-30c/newsarticle.aspx<span style="font-size: 12pt; font-weight: bold;">As the 2012&nbsp;</span><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold;">International&nbsp;</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-weight: bold;">tours draw to a close, we catch up with some of our examiners who've been to the far reaches of the globe examining for Rockschool.&nbsp;</span><br />
<h4> Jerry Forbes - North East India</h4><strong>2nd Novemeber - 4th December</strong> <br />
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My Examination pen was put down for the last time on Saturday Nov 24th in Kohima. I write from Varanasi in Utar Pradesh State, where my 2012 Indian adventure has come full-circle.<br />
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North East India representative John Rainamai and I have rocked through 7 cities in 5 states in 3 weeks. We have, together, seen over 260 brand new candidates!&nbsp;It's been a hugely positive tour, and simultaneously very demanding - most 'days off' having to be used up travelling from one place to the next, because of the distance or accessibility to the next place, or both.&nbsp;<br />
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We had one hair-raising drive from the Hill Station of Aizawl down to its airport 30Km away, in order to arrive at check-in the statutory 45 minutes before departure - only to find that Jet Airways had cancelled the flight due to lack of passengers, but chosen not to inform us! 3-4 hours of thumb twiddling and suspense later, we were relieved to be given a space on the only other (Air India) option that would still get us to the next day's exams in Shillong in time! <br />
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I listened to John, in the evenings of the earliest stages of the tour, talk of potentially doubling the numbers next year. I couldn't know then if he was right or wrong, or somewhere inbetween. Now that I can reflect with hindsight and experience, now that I have seen how well he knows his territory, its people and its politics (he's a Naga after all) I can see he's absolutely right. It could even be bigger than that.<br />
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All in all the feedback we received whilst 'on the road' suggests that we have done Rockschool proud &nbsp;- it was all very positive. <br />
<h4>Abhig Ya</h4> Check out Rockschool candidate Abhig Ya performing Grade 8 piece - 'Fusion' in Darjeeling<br />
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Viv Lock - South Africa, Malaysia and Taiwan</h4><span style="font-weight: bold;">October to December</span><strong><br />
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Stuart Slater - South Africa, Botswana, Malaysia, Hong Kong and China</h4><span style="font-weight: bold;">September to November<br />
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</stron></strong><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/cG0SClH-30c" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=181Exam Results Over The Christmas Periodhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/HQgw6dY4eac/newsarticle.aspxThe Rockschool office will be closed midday from the&nbsp;<strong>19th December until 2nd January.</strong><strong>&nbsp;</strong>All exam results up to the <strong>2nd December</strong> have been sent so please check with your post office if you have not received these. All exam results from <strong>3rd -17th December </strong>are being moderated<strong>&nbsp;</strong>and<strong>&nbsp;</strong>will be sent as soon as possible when the offices re-open on <strong>2nd January.&nbsp;<br />
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Until then have&nbsp;a very Merry&nbsp;Christmas and a Happy New Year, if you have any enquiries regarding your exam results please&nbsp;<a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/contactus">contact us</a>&nbsp;before the <span style="font-weight: bold;">19th December</span>.&nbsp;<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/HQgw6dY4eac" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=179NEW 2012-2018 Companion Guides and Technical Handbooks OUT NOW!http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/PtogYi6n9OU/newsarticle.aspx<br />
<a href="http://www.musicroom.com/rockschool"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1048" /></a> <strong><span style="font-size: 13pt;">The brand new 2012-2018 Companion Guides and Technical Handbooks are your essential study guides. Perfect for teachers and students, they are the best way to improve exam performance and technical ability.</span></strong><strong>&nbsp;</strong>
<h3>2012-2018 Companion Guides</h3>
<h4>Perfect for Teachers and Students</h4> The Rockschool 2012-2018 Guitar, Bass &amp; Drums Companion Guides feature over <span style="font-weight: bold;">200 &#8216;unseen&#8217; test examples</span> that cover <span style="font-weight: bold;">every grade</span> from Debut-8. The Companion Guides contain <span style="font-weight: bold;">3 CD&#8217;s worth</span> of audio so you&#8217;ll be able to get <span style="font-weight: bold;">every aspect</span> of your guitar exam nailed. If you want to improve your exam performance, this is the book for you. <br />
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<h4>Features</h4> The Companion Guides feature examples from the following tests: </strong>
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<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sight Reading </span>(Debut-5) - 6 per grade</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Improvisation &amp; Interpretation </span>(Grades1-5)&nbsp;- 6 per grade</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ear Tests </span>(Debut-Grade 8) -&nbsp;6 per grade</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Quick Study Pieces </span>(Grades 6-8) - 6 examples per grade in varying styles from metal-Latin</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">General Musicianship Questions</span> (Debut-Grade 8) - 5 example questions per grade</li> </ul><strong>Use the Companion Guides alongside your Rockschool Grade Book to improve technical ability and ace your exam. &nbsp;</strong>
<h4>Sample Pages</h4><br />
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<td style="padding-right: 10px"><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1042&O=1"><img title="Download Sample PDF" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1039&O=1" /></a> <br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold; font-size: 11.5pt;">2012-2018 <br />
GUITAR COMPANION GUIDE</span>&nbsp;<a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01063981/details.html" target="_blank"><br />
View book on musicroom.com </a></td>
<td style="padding-left:10px; padding-right: 10px"><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1043&O=1"><img title="Download Sample PDF" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1040" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold; font-size: 11.5pt;">2012-2018&nbsp;<br />
BASS COMPANION GUIDE</span>&nbsp;<br />
<a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01063982/details.html" target="_blank">View book on musicroom.com </a></td>
<td style="padding-left: 10px"><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1044&O=1"><img title="Download Sample PDF" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1041" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold;">2012-2018&nbsp;<br style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold;" />
DRUMS COMPANION GUIDE<br />
</span><a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01063983/details.html" target="_blank">View book on musicroom.com </a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <br />
<br />
<h3>2012-2018 Technical Handbooks</h3>
<h4> Perfect for Teachers and Students</h4> The Rockschool 2012-2018 Technical Handbooks feature <span "="" bold;"="" style="font-weight: bold;">every riff, scale, arpeggio, chord, technical exercise and rudiment</span><span "="" bold;"="" style=" font-weight:="> you need to complete your Rockschool Grade Exam (Grades Debut-8). The Technical Handbooks contain <span style="font-weight: bold;">audio CD</span> so you&#8217;ll be able to nail all the technical exercises in your exam as well as improve your technical ability at home. <br />
<strong><br />
<h4>Features</h4></strong>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Grade-by-grade overview</span> &#8211; What&#8217;s new at each grade and the technical work required</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Grade-by-grade ordering</span> &#8211; Every key, starting note, fingering, &amp; sticking pattern </li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">3x Stylistic Study examples</span> (Grades 6-8) &#8211; Comprehensive examples from metal-Latin</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Frequently Asked Questions section</span> &#8211; Questions you might find useful before your exam</li></ul><strong>Use the Technical Handbooks alongside your Rockschool Grade Book to improve technical ability and ace your exam.&nbsp;</strong><br />
<h4>Sample Pages</h4><br />
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<td style="padding-right: 10px"><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1051&O=1"><img title="Download Sample PDF" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1045" /></a> <br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold; font-size: 11.5pt;">2012-2018 <br />
GUITAR TECHNICAL HANDBOOK</span>&nbsp;<a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01063984/details.html" target="_blank"><br />
View book on musicroom.com </a></td>
<td style="padding-left:10px; padding-right: 10px"><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1052&O=1"><img title="Download Sample PDF" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1046" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold; font-size: 11.5pt;">2012-2018&nbsp;<br />
BASS TECHNICAL HANDBOOK</span>&nbsp;<br />
<a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01063985/details.html" target="_blank">View book on musicroom.com </a></td>
<td style="padding-left: 10px"><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1053&O=1"><img title="Download Sample PDF" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1047" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold;">2012-2018&nbsp;<br style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold;" />
DRUMS TECHNICAL HANDBOOK<br />
</span><a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01063986/details.html" target="_blank">View book on musicroom.com </a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <br />
<br />
</span><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/PtogYi6n9OU" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=178Jason Bowld Drum Clinic Part 10http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/sqca-d1gsJA/newsarticle.aspx<br />
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<h4> Jason Bowld</h4> Jason has shared the stage with some of the biggest names in rock including, Pitchshifter, Bullet for my Valentine, Killing Joke &amp; Fightstar. In the final part of our Hong Kong drum clinic, Jason takes you through his outro piece. Immerse yourself in some masterful cymbal work and some lightning quick fills.&nbsp;<br />
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If you'd like to buy any of the books covered in this 10 part tutorial you can do so by heading over to <a href="https://www.musicroom.com/Rockschool" target="_blank">Musicroom.com</a><br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=758" style="width: 640px" /><br />
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<strong>Piece:</strong>&nbsp;N/a | &nbsp;<strong>Skill Level: </strong>Advanced |&nbsp;<strong>Skills Learn't:</strong>&nbsp;N/a<br />
<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=758" style="width: 640px" /><br />
</td> </tr> </tbody></table> <br />
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<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/48070554?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" width="710" height="400" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen="" mozallowfullscreen="" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold; ">*Please note, the views given by Jason in this 10 part clinic are not the views of Rockschool and as such should not be taken as strict examination guidance.</span><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/sqca-d1gsJA" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=168Jason Bowld Drum Clinic Part 9http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/3VcwoVYTb3c/newsarticle.aspx<br />
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<h4> Jason Bowld</h4> Jason has shared the stage with some of the biggest names in rock including, Pitchshifter, Bullet for my Valentine, Killing Joke &amp; Fightstar. In the 9th part of our Hong Kong clinic Jason answers more of your questions, giving you some invaluable advice on playing in band.<br />
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Pop back next week when Jason will be playing his outro track, this is not to be missed! <br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=758" style="width: 640px" /><br />
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<strong>Piece:</strong>&nbsp;N/a | &nbsp;<strong>Skill Level: </strong>Advanced |&nbsp;<strong>Skills Learn't:</strong>&nbsp;Left foot Hi-hat, keeping time in a band.<br />
<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=758" style="width: 640px" /><br />
</td> </tr> </tbody></table> <br />
<br />
<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/47990565?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" width="710" height="400" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen="" mozallowfullscreen="" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold; ">*Please note, the views given by Jason in this 10 part clinic are not the views of Rockschool and as such should not be taken as strict examination guidance.</span><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/3VcwoVYTb3c" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=167Jason Bowld Drum Clinic Part 8http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/zki4MvSBzS4/newsarticle.aspx<br />
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<h4> Jason Bowld</h4> Jason has shared the stage with some of the biggest names in rock including, Pitchshifter, Bullet for my Valentine, Killing Joke &amp; Fightstar.&nbsp;In part 8 of 10 Jason takes you through the top end of the Rockschool Grades with <a href="https://http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01056497/details.html" target="_blank">Grade 8</a> thumper, 'Meet Darth Ear'. Learn how to develop a great drum solo, and improve your pedal technique. &nbsp; &nbsp;<br />
<br />
Pop back next week when Jason answers more questions and gives you some great tips to better your playing.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=758" style="width: 640px" /><br />
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<strong>Piece:</strong>&nbsp;Meet Darth Ear | &nbsp;<strong>Skill Level: </strong>Advanced |&nbsp;<strong>Skills Learn't:</strong>&nbsp;Right foot technique, effective soling | <span style="font-weight: bold; ">Book Covered:</span> <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01056497/details.html" target="_blank">Grade 8</a><br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=758" style="width: 640px" /><br />
</td> </tr> </tbody></table> <br />
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<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/47962339?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" width="710" height="400" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen="" mozallowfullscreen="" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
<br />
<h3>Related Products</h3>
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<h4>Books Covered: Drums Grade 8</h4>We've built upon our 21 years of unrivalled experience in rock and pop examination by bringing you the 2012-2018 Syllabus. For this latest Syllabus, we've employed some of the most sought after professional musicians to ensure that their tunes are the most authentic on offer. The <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01056497/details.html" target="_blank">Grade 8</a> book features 'Meet Darth Ear' as played by Jason Bowld in the clip above.<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>6 Original Tunes in a range of styles</li>
<li> Top Flight Production</li>
<li> Specialist&nbsp;Professional&nbsp;Writers</li>
<li> Top Session Musicians</li>
<li>Walkthroughs, Hints &amp; Tips</li> </ul>Buy online from <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01056496/details.html">Musicroom.com</a> </td>
<td> <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01056497/details.html" target="_blank"><img title="Drums Grade 8" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=903" style="padding-left: 40px" /></a> </td> </tr> </tbody></table><br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold; ">*Please note, the views given by Jason in this 10 part clinic are not the views of Rockschool and as such should not be taken as strict examination guidance.</span><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/zki4MvSBzS4" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=166Jason Bowld Drum Clinic Part 7http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/kI93b4vFXbs/newsarticle.aspx<br />
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<h4> Jason Bowld</h4> Jason has shared the stage with some of the biggest names in rock including, Pitchshifter, Bullet for my Valentine, Killing Joke &amp; Fightstar. &nbsp;In part 7 of our 10 part clinic,&nbsp;Jason takes you through one of the most used patterns, 'The Shuffle'. Learn how to nail it, and its applications.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Pop back next week when Jason will be taking you through Grade 8 track 'Meet Darth Ear'<br />
<br />
<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=758" style="width: 640px" /><br />
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<strong>Piece:</strong>&nbsp;N/a | &nbsp;<strong>Skill Level: </strong>Intermediate/Advanced |&nbsp;<strong>Skills Learn't:</strong>&nbsp;The shuffle, rhythmic displacement.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=758" style="width: 640px" /><br />
</td> </tr> </tbody></table> <br />
<br />
<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/47993492?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" width="710" height="400" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen="" mozallowfullscreen="" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold; ">*Please note, the views given by Jason in this 10 part clinic are not the views of Rockschool and as such should not be taken as strict examination guidance.</span><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/kI93b4vFXbs" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=165Music for Youth Schools Prom 2012http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/ZZaupb3KTk8/newsarticle.aspx<span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; ">One venue, three nights, 3,000 performers. Outstanding performances from some of the UK's most inspirational young musicians.</span><br />
<br />
This year the annual Music for Youth Schools Prom will take place on the 12th, 13th and 14th of November at the Royal Albert Hall. Now in its 4th year, the Schools Prom offers one of the biggest nights in the music education calendar. Out of the 3,000 performers you'll find an eclectic mix of different styles and live performances from all around the UK, including the&nbsp;humorously&nbsp;titled 'Jazz in my pants'.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<em>&#8220;Three hours of the most inspiring music-making I&#8217;ve heard all year&#8221;<em>&nbsp;<strong>Tom Service,</strong>&nbsp;The Guardian.</em></em><br />
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The ace, 'Double Helix' who we caught up with at The National Festival back in July will also be performing, check out their interview below. The Rockschool team of course will be there in full, wishing all the performers the best of luck.&nbsp;<br />
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<br />
<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/45902431?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" width="710" height="400" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen="" mozallowfullscreen="" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
<br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/ZZaupb3KTk8" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=173Find Out What Your Rockschool Examiner Gets Up To!http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/vih0qVA23-E/newsarticle.aspx<p><em><span style="font-size: 12pt; color: #666666; ">Ever wondered what your Rockschool examiner gets up to when they're not examining? Wondered if maybe we lock them away in a cupboard till the next exam session? Well here are a few faces you might recognise, and as you can see they've been pretty busy with some impressive projects since you last saw them.</span></em><em><span style="font-size: 12.5pt; color: #666666; ">&nbsp;</span></em></p>
<h3>Joel Byrne-McCullough &#8211; Manchester</h3>
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<p>If you&#8217;re based in any part of the UK it&#8217;s probable you&#8217;ve come across this quality examiner with the soft Irish burr. At six foot four it&#8217;d be hard to miss him. Recently he&#8217;s been getting his guitar out for his band, The Slow Show&#8217;s sessions on Radio 2 with Dermot O&#8217;Leary. And if that&nbsp;wasn't&nbsp;stressful enough at the end of last year they supported Elbow at Manchester Cathedral and have been notching up gigs ever since, as well as releasing their second EP Brother in May. </p><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold; ">Links: </span><br />
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<a href="http://www.theslowshow.co.uk " target="_blank">http://www.theslowshow.co.uk </a><br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9-x462f7UDY" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9-x462f7UDY </a> </td></tr></tbody></table> <br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=758" /><br />
<h3>Stephen Gilchrist &#8211; London </h3> A new examiner to the Rockschool fold, you won&#8217;t miss this drummer with the big hair and big personality. Blur fans might have noticed him playing the tubs behind a certain Graham Coxon this summer as his band smashed their set at the i<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size:12.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family:calibri,sans-serif;mso-fareast-font-family:calibri;mso-bidi-font-family:times new roman;mso-ansi-language:en-us;mso-fareast-language:en-us;mso-bidi-language:ar-sa">nfamous&nbsp;</span>Reading Festival. Stephen&#8217;s been keeping Mr Coxon company for quite a while now through his various band incarnations.&nbsp;They've&nbsp;also just finished their support tour with Noel Gallagher and a European headline tour of their own.<br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=977" height="353" width="710" /><br />
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<strong>Links:</strong>&nbsp; | &nbsp;<a href="http://www.grahamcoxon.co.uk/" target="_blank">http://www.grahamcoxon.co.uk&nbsp;</a>&nbsp; | &nbsp;<a href="http://mapex.co.uk/artists/stephen-gilchrist" target="_blank">http://mapex.co.uk/artists/stephen-gilchrist<br />
</a><br />
<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=758" <br="" /><br />
<h3>Dan Worton &#8211; Wolverhampton</h3>
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<p>This examiner is no stranger to fame having taken his band Ned&#8217;s Atomic Dustbin right up into chart stratosphere during the 90s, spearheading the new UK alternative rock scene of the time. After ratcheting up nearly a million sales of their debut album and headlining Reading and Glastonbury festivals they eventually decided to go their separate ways in 1995. But this autumn Dan&#8217;s decided to get back on the road with his trusty drum kit (and the rest of the band).</p><br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold; ">Links:</span><a href="http://www.nedsatomicdustbin.com" target="_blank"><br />
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http://www.nedsatomicdustbin.com</a><br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gmD08Na5VKI" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gmD08Na5VKI </a></td> </tr> </tbody></table><br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=758" /> <br />
<h3>Frank Moon &#8211; London</h3>
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<p>The man of the million instruments, this examiner originally hailing from deepest darkest Cornwall is probably also a familiar face around Birmingham as he learnt his examiner trade in the black country. Outside of examining he hooked up with some brummy counterparts and now puts a lot of his time into their band the Urban Folk Quartet.&nbsp;</p><br />
<p>Now on their third full album release their unique sound can&#8217;t help but make you get up and dance. Frank (on guitar and oud) has a &#8216;solve anything&#8217; attitude with commissions from the Royal Opera House and the Rose Theatre among his more eclectic works. He&#8217;s a regular for Cerys Matthews with whom he traipsed his way through the mud and chaos to join on stage at the Isle of Wight Festival in June.</p><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold; ">Links:</span><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.theurbanfolkquartet.com" target="_blank">http://www.theurbanfolkquartet.com</a><br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XMYIYu9qWQY" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XMYIYu9qWQY</a></td> </tr> </tbody></table><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/vih0qVA23-E" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=174Rockschool Attends Roland Germany Launchhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/7DtFO2eIHEU/newsarticle.aspx<span style="font-size: 13pt; font-style: italic; ">A host of music VIPs gathered in the Frankfurt suburb of Nauheim on Friday 5th October 2012 for the &#8216;Grand Opening&#8217; of the new Roland Germany HQ.</span> <br />
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The event was part of a whole weekend of activities to mark the relocation of Roland Germany from Hamburg. The head of Messe Frankfurt and the Burgermeister of Nauheim welcomed Marcus Sailer, President of Roland Germany, to their brand new home. <br />
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The weekend saw product demonstrations by a group of dedicated Roland Artists featuring the whole range of Roland products from amps to keyboards, effects pedals and loop stations. Rockschool&#8217;s German representative, David Clarke, gave a series of presentations on the new Grade exams throughout Saturday&#8217;s open house aimed at dealers. <br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=1025" /><br />
<br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/7DtFO2eIHEU" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=175Jason Bowld Drum Clinic Part 6http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/HKCfb1L2rYc/newsarticle.aspx<br />
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<h4> Jason Bowld</h4> Jason has shared the stage with some of the biggest names in rock including, Pitchshifter, Bullet for my Valentine, Killing Joke &amp; Fightstar. &nbsp;In part 6 of our 10 part clinic, Jason takes you through the famous 'Bembe Pattern' and how it can be played in the context of a track. &nbsp;<br />
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Pop back next week when Jason will be taking you through the 'shuffle'<br />
<br />
<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=758" style="width: 640px" /><br />
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<strong>Piece:</strong>&nbsp;N/a | &nbsp;<strong>Skill Level: </strong>Intermediate/Advanced |&nbsp;<strong>Skills Learn't:</strong>&nbsp;The Bembe Pattern, rhythmic displacement, 6/4.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=758" style="width: 640px" /><br />
</td> </tr> </tbody></table> <br />
<br />
<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/47821986?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" width="710" height="400" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen="" mozallowfullscreen="" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold; ">*Please note, the views given by Jason in this 10 part clinic are not the views of Rockschool and as such should not be taken as strict examination guidance.</span><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/HKCfb1L2rYc" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=164Band Slam 2012http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/ClyIua_bg3s/newsarticle.aspx<br />
Rockschool have recently teamed up with <a href="http://www.roundhouse.org.uk/" target="_blank">The Roundhouse</a> and Raw Material to launch a new event for young bands and solo artists. Band Slam will take place on Saturday 3rd November at The Roundhouse and will involve mentoring and workshops for the lucky acts selected followed by an opportunity to perform in The Roundhouse Studio Theatre.<br />
<br />
Two bands from Rockschool Music Practitioners centres will be taking part in this first event with further opportunities to enter coming in 2013.The winning band will then get to record in The Roundhouse PRS/EMI studio with a professional producer and to perform at The Roundhouse Rising Festival.<br />
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To take part, or to reserve a free ticket for the live show please email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:music.projects@roundhouse.org.uk" target="_blank">music.projects@roundhouse.org.uk</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.roundhouse.org.uk/whats-on/productions/band-slam" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=971" /></a><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/ClyIua_bg3s" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=172Jason Bowld Drum Clinic Part 5http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/1ZTHg8oe5Go/newsarticle.aspx<br />
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<h4> Jason Bowld</h4> Jason has shared the stage with some of the biggest names in rock including, Pitchshifter, Bullet for my Valentine, Killing Joke &amp; Fightstar. &nbsp;In part 5 of our 10 part clinic, Jason answers all your questions, learn the key to practising, playing in different styles and the power of accenting. <br />
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Pop back next week when Jason will be taking you through the 'Bembe Pattern'<br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=758" style="width: 640px" /><br />
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<strong>Piece:</strong>&nbsp;N/a | &nbsp;<strong>Skill Level: </strong>N/a<span style="font-weight: bold; ">&nbsp;</span>|&nbsp;<strong>Skills Learn't:</strong>&nbsp;Practicing techniques, playing with accents, playing live.&nbsp;<br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=758" style="width: 640px" /><br />
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<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/47542285?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" width="710" height="400" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen="" mozallowfullscreen="" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold; ">*Please note, the views given by Jason in this 10 part clinic are not the views of Rockschool and as such should not be taken as strict examination guidance.</span><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/1ZTHg8oe5Go" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=163Exclusive - Jason Bowld Tour-camhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/qMw3Z-KN8cg/newsarticle.aspx<br />
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If you haven't heard about <a href="http://www.jasonbowld.com/" target="_blank">Jason Bowld</a> already he's one of the hottest metal drummers around, writer and contributor to the <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/2012syllabus" target="_blank">2012 Syllabus</a>, Jason is currently on tour with Metal titans&nbsp;<a href="http://axewounduk.com/" target="_blank">Axewound</a>.<br />
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In these four videos Jason shares with you some exclusive drum-cam footage from tour.&nbsp;Check out our favourite live metal drummer doing what he does best.&nbsp;<br />
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<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/50981980" width="710" height="400" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen="" mozallowfullscreen="" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
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<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/50982443" width="710" height="400" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen="" mozallowfullscreen="" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
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<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/50983027" width="710" height="400" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen="" mozallowfullscreen="" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
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<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/50983366" width="710" height="400" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen="" mozallowfullscreen="" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/qMw3Z-KN8cg" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=171Jason Bowld Drum Clinic Part 4http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/3dmfArSaIeU/newsarticle.aspx<br />
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<h4> Jason Bowld</h4> Jason has shared the stage with some of the biggest names in rock including, Pitchshifter, Bullet for my Valentine Killing Joke &amp; Fightstar. &nbsp;In part 4 of our 10 part clinic, Jason takes you through the key to developing great double-bass drum technique. Learn some great practice techniques and how to play in different time signatures.&nbsp;<br />
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Pop back next week when Jason will be acting Guru, as you get all your questions answered.&nbsp;<br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=758" style="width: 640px" /><br />
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<strong>Piece:</strong>&nbsp;N/a | &nbsp;<strong>Skill Level: </strong>Intermediate/Advanced |&nbsp;<strong>Skills Learn't:</strong>&nbsp;Double-bass drum, playing in 3/4 &amp; 4/4, practice techniques.<br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=758" style="width: 640px" /><br />
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<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/46550761?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" width="710" height="400" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen="" mozallowfullscreen="" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
<br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/3dmfArSaIeU" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=162Madrid Rep Conferencehttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/bgTO4vQjxnk/newsarticle.aspx<br />
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Our very own Mary Keene (Exams Manager) &amp; Noam Lederman (Chief Examiner) were in Madrid last week for a conference to introduce our new&nbsp;Spanish&nbsp;reps, Diego&nbsp;Zamorano&nbsp;(Northern Spain) and Kostka Garcia-Mi&#241;aur (Southern Spain). Twenty-two of the top schools and centres were also in attendance for an intense day of presentations conducted by Roland. <br />
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Some of the new 2012 Syllabus tracks were also debuted, with Larry&nbsp;Carlton's&nbsp;Grade 6 track - 'Striped Shirt' going down a storm. With the introduction of the 2012 Syllabus Rockschool in Spain looks to continue to grow, giving candidates an&nbsp;unprecedented&nbsp;level of quality and expertise. &nbsp;<br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=950" /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/bgTO4vQjxnk" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=170Jason Bowld Drum Clinic Part 3http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/OTN0O24bAfA/newsarticle.aspx<br />
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<h4> Jason Bowld</h4> Jason has shared the stage with some of the biggest names in rock including, Pitchshifter, Bullet for my Valentine, Killing Joke &amp; Fightstar. &nbsp;In part three of our 10 part clinic, Jason takes you through one of his own tracks, 'Cyberhead'. This is a full on, funky, electro/grunge rock track with all the expression and energy you'd expect from a drummer like Jason. &nbsp;<br />
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Pop back next week when Jason will be showing you how to develop great double-bass drum technique.&nbsp;<br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=758" style="width: 640px" /><br />
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<strong>Piece:</strong>&nbsp;'Cyber head' &nbsp;<span style="font-weight: bold; ">|</span> &nbsp;<strong>Skill Level: </strong>Intermediate <span style="font-weight: bold; ">|&nbsp;Book Covered:</span>&nbsp;N/a&nbsp;<br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=758" style="width: 640px" /><br />
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<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/44805055?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" width="710" height="400" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen="" mozallowfullscreen="" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
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<p><strong>*Please note, the views given by Jason in this 10 part clinic are not the views of Rockschool and as such should not be taken as strict examination guidance.</strong></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/OTN0O24bAfA" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=161Jason Bowld Drum Clinic Part 2http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/OZt7YO3bQ_s/newsarticle.aspx<br />
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<h4> Jason Bowld</h4> Jason has shared the stage with some of the biggest names in rock including, Pitchshifter, Bullet for my Valentine, Killing Joke &amp; Fightstar. &nbsp;In part 2 of our 10 part clinic, Jason takes you through Grade 3 track 'Fallout' which can be found in the 2012 <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01056491/details.html" target="_self">Grade 3 Book</a>. Learn the importance of playing 'to the track' and the technical difficulty between the Grades.&nbsp;<br />
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Pop back next week when Jason will be taking you through one of his own tracks, 'Cyber head'.&nbsp;<br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=758" style="width: 640px" /><br />
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<strong>Piece:</strong>&nbsp;'Fallout' &nbsp;<span style="font-weight: bold; ">|</span> &nbsp;<strong>Skill Level: </strong>Beginner&nbsp;<span style="font-weight: bold; ">|</span>&nbsp;<strong>Skills Learn't:</strong> Playing 'to the track', playing consistency &nbsp;<span style="font-weight: bold; ">|</span>&nbsp;<strong>Book Covered:&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01056491/details.html" target="_blank">Grade 3</a><br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=758" style="width: 640px" /><br />
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<h3>Related Products</h3>
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<h4>Books Covered: Drums Grade 3</h4>We've built upon our 21 years of unrivalled experience in rock and pop examination by bringing you the 2012-2018 Syllabus. For this latest Syllabus, we've employed some of the most sought after professional musicians to ensure that their tunes are the most authentic on offer. The <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01056491/details.html" target="_blank">Grade 3 book</a> features the piece 'Fallout' as played by Jason in the Clinic and on the.&nbsp;<br />
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<strong>Book Features</strong>
<ul>
<li>6 Original Tunes in a range of styles</li>
<li> Top Flight Production</li>
<li> Specialist&nbsp;Professional&nbsp;Writers</li>
<li> Top Session Musicians</li>
<li>Walkthroughs, Hints &amp; Tips</li> </ul>Buy online from <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01056491/details.html" target="_self">Musicroom.com</a> </td>
<td> <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01056491/details.html"><img title="Drums Grade 3" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=902" style="padding-left: 40px" /></a> </td> </tr> </tbody></table><br />
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<p><strong>*Please note, the views given by Jason in this 10 part clinic are not the views of Rockschool and as such should not be taken as strict examination guidance.</strong></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/OZt7YO3bQ_s" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=160Jason Bowld Drum Clinic Part 1http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/5NjNrdwiSSA/newsarticle.aspx<h4>Over the next 10 weeks we'll be breaking down Jason Bowlds heart stopping drum clinic in Hong Kong. Whether you're a beginner or advanced player you'll be able to take something away from this 10 part clinic. In part one, Jason covers Grade 7 piece, 'Razorhead'.&nbsp;</h4>
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<h4> Jason Bowld</h4> Jason has shared the stage with some of the biggest names in rock, including Pitchshifter, Bullet for my Valentine, Killing Joke &amp; Fightstar. &nbsp;In Part one Jason will take you through Grade 7 thumper 'Razorhead', currently featured on the <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/2012syllabus" target="_blank">2012 Syllabus page</a>. Learn&nbsp;how to play consistently and immerse yourself in the power of the 'rimshot'. <br />
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Pop back next week when Jason will be taking you through <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01056491/details.html" target="_blank">Grade 3</a> tune, 'Fallout'.&nbsp;<br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=758" style="width: 640px" /><br />
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<strong>Piece:</strong>&nbsp;'Razorhead' &nbsp;<span style="font-weight: bold; ">|</span> &nbsp;<span style="font-weight: bold; ">Skill Level:</span> Advanced <span style="font-weight: bold; ">|</span>&nbsp;<strong>Skills Learn't:</strong> Playing consistently, Rimshot &nbsp;<span style="font-weight: bold; ">|</span>&nbsp;<span style="font-weight: bold; ">Books Covered:&nbsp;</span><a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01056496/details.html" target="_blank">Grade 7</a><br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=758" style="width: 640px" /><br />
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<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/45197874?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" width="710" height="400" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen="" mozallowfullscreen="" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
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<h4>Books Covered: Drums Grade 7</h4>We've built upon our 21 years of unrivalled experience in rock and pop examination by bringing you the 2012-2018 Syllabus. For this latest Syllabus, we've employed some of the most sought after professional musicians to ensure that our tunes are the most authentic on offer. The Grade 7 book features 'Razorhead' as played by Jason Bowld in the clip above and featured on the <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/2012syllabus" target="_blank">2012 page</a>.&nbsp;<br />
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<strong> Book Features</strong>
<ul>
<li>6 Original Tunes in a range of styles</li>
<li> Top Flight Production</li>
<li> Specialist&nbsp;Professional&nbsp;Writers</li>
<li> Top Session Musicians</li>
<li>Walkthroughs, Hints &amp; Tips</li> </ul>Buy online from <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01056496/details.html" target="_blank">Musicroom.com</a> </td>
<td> <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/id_no/01056496/details.html"><img title="Drums Grade 7" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=895" style="padding-left: 40px" /></a> </td> </tr> </tbody></table>
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<p><strong>*Please note, the views given by Jason in this 10 part clinic are not the views of Rockschool and as such should not be taken as strict examination guidance.</strong></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/5NjNrdwiSSA" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=153FREE Teachers Workshop - 22nd Septhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/QuG8H6_Gh-s/newsarticle.aspxRockschool Chief Examiner&nbsp;Noam Lederman&nbsp;&amp; Publishing Manager James Uings will be at Chamberlain Music in Haslemere, Surrey on the 22nd of September for two intensive teacher workshops from 12.30pm-2.30pm and 3.00pm-5.00pm.&nbsp;<br />
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Noam and James will be running through the 2012 Syllabus in its entirety. This is a perfect opportunity to get to grips with some of the jaw dropping tracks on the new Syllabus, find out how the Syllabus has improved, and grab some great tips for your own teaching. <br />
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Both Noam and James will be on hand to answer any questions you have, Rockschool freebies and promotional materials will also be available on the day.&nbsp;<br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=758" /><br />
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<h5>Noam Lederman</h5> Noam is our Chief Examiner and has worked with some of the biggest names in rock and pop. Including; Corinne Bailey Rae, Artful Dodger, State Of Bengal, Mark Hill, Trevor Horn and many more. Check out Noam in action in Hong Kong in the video below.&nbsp;</td> </tr> </tbody></table> <br />
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<h5>James Uings</h5>James is Rockschool's Publishing Manager. Before joining Rockschool he was Music Editor for Total Guitar, Europe's biggest selling guitar magazine. He also writes for Guitarist, Total Guitar, Guitar Techniques and Computer Music.</td></tr></tbody></table> <br />
<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=758" /><br />
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To register your free place call <span style="font-weight: bold; ">01428 658806</span> or email <a href="mailto:publishing@chamberlainmusic.com">publishing@chamberlainmusic.com</a> <br />
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<iframe width="710" height="400" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/eKh8eaRGrvA" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/QuG8H6_Gh-s" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=159FREE 2012 Syllabus Clinic - 8th Septhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/Pm_pRpYCpJM/newsarticle.aspx<br />
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<h5>Our Chief Examiner Noam Lederman will be at Musicroom in Portsmouth on Saturday 8th September to give a FREE, one-off live clinic on the 2012 Syllabus.&nbsp;</h5><br />
Noam was one of the Chief consultants on the 2012 Syllabus but is also a professional session drummer in his spare time, working with some of the biggest names in rock &amp; pop.&nbsp;<br />
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In this special <span style="font-weight: bold; ">one-off clinic </span>you can learn everything you need to know about the new Syllabus, hear some of the jaw dropping new tunes played LIVE, and ask any questions you may have about the Syllabus from one of the writers himself!&nbsp;<br />
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Attendees will also experience live demonstrations from a Rockschool guitarist. To celebrate this unique and special event, Musicroom Portsmouth are offering &#8220;beat the internet&#8221; deals with a <strong> 10% Educators&#8217; Discount </strong> across the store. <br />
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Rockschool freebies will also be given out on the day, so don't miss out!&nbsp;<br />
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Call <strong>02392 863792 </strong>or email <a href="mailto:portsmouth@musicroom.com" target="_blank">portsmouth@musicroom.com</a>&nbsp;with the subject header 'I WANT TO ROCK' to book your place now! <br />
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Check out Noam in action earlier in the year in Hong Kong below. </td> </tr></tbody></table> <br />
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<iframe width="710" height="400" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/eKh8eaRGrvA" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/Pm_pRpYCpJM" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=158Rockschool in Germanyhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/kHi5Dgk5KU0/newsarticle.aspxThis summer 40 Pupils from the Oerly Music Academy in Germany were presented with their Rockschool Certificates by <a href="http://www.dirkbrand.com/new/video.php" target="_blank">Dirk Brand</a> world famous drummer, tutor and product specialist for Roland wordwide. There were 9 distinctions and 20 merits. The youngest candidate was David Westermeier aged seven who passed&nbsp;Drums Grade 1 with Distinction. Headmaster David Clarke who represents Rockschool in Germany was very proud of the results and looks forward to working with the <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/2012syllabus" target="_self">new Syllabus</a>. <br />
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He commented: <strong><em>&quot;Rockschool is the way forward for teachers and pupils to develop their skills to become good allround professional musicians&quot;. </em><strong><br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=868" /> </strong></strong><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/kHi5Dgk5KU0" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=157Music Instructors Achieve First Rockschool Qualifications in Canadahttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/timoO91Vdnc/newsarticle.aspxOn June 2nd, 2012, Twelve instructors from The Wentworth Music Education Centre in Kelowna, BC received the first Rockschool Teaching Licentiate Diplomas in Canada. The three Teaching and nine Licentiate Diploma recipients and well as the guests were buzzing with excitement before and after the ceremonies knowing they had now opened doors for other music teachers across Canada to be recognised for their level of education and professional development offered through the course.<br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=816" /> <br />
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The one hour ceremonies were opened with a speech from Member of Parliament, Mr. Ron Cannan, who made glowing remarks about the importance of what these new qualifications meant to Canada, welcoming the programme with highest regards. The Ceremonies proceeded with Master of Ceremonies Dale Wentworth, giving a speech about Education and lessons learned. Following that Noel Wentworth, founder of the education centre and recipient of one of the Licentiate Diplomas spoke of the course and the pride he felt from the camaraderie&nbsp;and education the graduates received. &quot;The experience of being with these twelve instructors daily and seeing how they bonded whilst working on their professional development was worth every moment!&quot; exclaimed Wentworth during his speech.<br />
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From there special guests Danny McBride and Darby Mills received Honorary Licentiate Diplomas for their contributions to Popular Music. Danny McBride was best known for his work with Chris Deburg and the reformation of the band Steppenwolf. McBride told wonderful stories of opening up for bands like Led Zeppelin, being on tour with Supertramp as well as having the Cure and U2 as supporting acts during his career. Canadian Walk of Fame nominee Darby Mills then spoke of lessons that changed her life from her work as lead singer for the Headpins. Both were very honoured to receive the diplomas and the recognition a programme like Rockschool had offered them.<br />
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The Diplomas were then presented after a speech from Rockschool examiner Jason Huxtable who had just flown in for the first Canadian Rockschool exams. The ceremony concluded with Licentiate Diploma recipient Trina Dunsmoor giving the valedictorian speech. Dunsmoor summed up how each student comes to an instructor with big dreams when coming for lessons. She went on to explain the responsibility of Instructors to take those dreams and encourage them as if they were their own, giving students the tools to grow and develop along the way. <br />
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A fantastic ceremony to kick off a wonderful program for all music instructors in Canada.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/timoO91Vdnc" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=152IGF Rock - Guitar Lab 2012http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/hswM0LBn-LU/newsarticle.aspx<h3>Get 3 days of hands-on, intensive clinics and workshops with some of the best rock &amp; metal guitarists around.</h3> In Collaboration with Rockschool, The International Guitar Foundation are running a 3 day intensive Rock Guitar Lab in Bath this July 28th-30th. Perfect for all guitarists whether you&#8217;re a beginner or advanced player you&#8217;ll benefit from one-to-one tuition, and guitar master classes where you can improve on all aspects of your playing.&nbsp;<br />
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The Guitar Lab Syllabus is designed to reflect 8 key study points found in the Rockschool Syllabus. The 3 day programme is hosted by Rockschool's Publishing Manager and Total Guitar contributor, James Uings. Tutors also include: Steve Allsworth, Jamie Hunt, Neville Marten, Kit Morgan, Stuart Ryan, Steve Smythe. &nbsp;<br />
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<iframe width="710" height="400" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/TU2ttkFPgYk" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
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<strong>Dates:</strong> 28th - 30th July <br />
<strong>Levels:</strong> All levels <br />
<strong>Age:</strong> All ages <br />
<strong>Accommodation:</strong> Click <a href="https://http://www.igf.org.uk/Accommodation_and_Travel_Information.html" target="_self">here</a> for accommodation information <br />
<strong>Social life:</strong> Rock Jam every evening! <br />
<span style="font-weight: bold; ">Price:</span> &#163;220 - booking information at the bottom of the page.&nbsp;
<h4>Day 1:</h4> A full-on day packed with some of the UK&#8217;s best rock guitarists demonstrating key techniques that will take your playing to the next level. Amazing players will take you through the &#8216;most perfect&#8217; techniques, styles, tricks and licks. <br />
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<strong>Guitar Lab includes:</strong>
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<li>Working with rock chord charts with Kit Morgan</li>
<li>Demystifying the modes with Rockschool&#8217;s very own James Uings</li>
<li>Metal picking secrets with Steve Smythe</li>
<li>Theme and plot: strategies for better soloing with James Uings</li>
<li>Real world performance tips with Steve Allsworth</li>
<li>Playing over changes with Stuart Ryan</li>
<li>Blues rock: from Bluesbreakers to Bonamassa with Neville Marten</li>
<li>Advanced rock techniques (eg. Paul Gilbert&#8217;s legato, Van Halen style two-hand tapping, Billy </li>Gibbons&#8217; pinched harmonics, Hendrix&#8217;s chord embellishment, Zep, Rush and Dream Theater style odd time signature riffs) with Jamie Hunt</ol>
<h4>Day 2 &amp; 3:</h4> Two days of intensive rock workshops. Now you have seen techniques from day 1, we lock you in a room with the tutors until you come out a better player!<br />
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<strong>What happens in the evening? </strong>Join the house band for &#8216;Rock Jam&#8217;!<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold; ">Who is this for?</span> Guitar Lab is for tasteful shredders, classic rockers and humble metal headz. Guitar Lab is NOT for Opera fans, ballet dancers or mime artists.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/hswM0LBn-LU" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=154Amplified at The National Festival 2012http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/KN8I9nwyHno/newsarticle.aspx<h3>Music for Youth's National Festival is one of the UK's largest youth music festivals involving a weeks worth of bands, artists, choirs and performances. </h3> The National Festival not only promotes the talents and growth of music in the UK but gives teenagers the opportunity to perform on the biggest stages. <br />
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The amplified portion of the festival takes place at the end of the week at the HMV Institute, Birmingham. Incorporating some of the more alternative rock, pop and urban acts of the festival, the two days featured more than 30 bands &amp; artists, also showcasing four bands studying on Rockschool vocational courses, Feird Wish, Time Will Tell, Severin &amp; Inside Indigo.<br />
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We caught up with Severin &amp; Double Helix after they got off stage. &nbsp;<br />
<h3> Severin</h3>Severin are a 4 piece Rock/Metal band from Kings Lynn, Norfolk formed in the winter of 2010.<br />
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<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/45897441?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" width="710" height="391" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen="" mozallowfullscreen="" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
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<h3>Double Helix</h3> Double Helix are a 4 piece alternative/pop-indie band from Burton on Trent, Staffordshire.<br />
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<h3>Gallery</h3>Here are just some of the amazing bands that graced the stage over the course of the two days.&nbsp;<br />
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<td> <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=786" target="_self"><img title="Click to view larger image" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=800" style="padding-bottom: 11px" /></a><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=788" target="_self"><img title="Click to view larger image" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=801" /></a> </td></tr></tbody></table>
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<td> <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=787" target="_self"><img title="Click to view larger image" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=802" style="padding-top: 8px" /></a> </td> </tr> </tbody></table> <br />
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<td> <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=789" target="_self"><img title="Click to view larger image" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=803" style="padding-bottom: 10px" /></a> <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=791" target="_self"><img title="Click to view larger image" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=804" /></a> </td>
<td> <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=792" target="_self"><img title="Click to view larger image" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=805" <="" td="" style="padding-left: 10px" /></a> </td></tr> </tbody></table>
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<td><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=795" target="_self"><img title="Click to view larger image" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=807" style="padding-bottom: 15px" /></a> <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=797" target="_self"><img title="Click to view larger image" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=808" /></a> </td> </tr> </tbody></table><br />
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<td> <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=798" target="_self"><img title="Click to view larger image" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=809" style="padding-right: 12px" /></a> <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=796" target="_self"><img title="Click to view larger image" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=810" /></a> </td></tr> </tbody></table><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/KN8I9nwyHno" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=155Escuela Rockschool, Leon Celebrates Successful First Yearhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/9EM38kjLXy0/newsarticle.aspxOn June 27th the Villaquilambre ('Escuela Rockschool') school of music&nbsp;located in Le&#243;n, (northern Spain)&nbsp;held an end of year concert in celebration of a successful first year as a certified Rockschool Centre.&nbsp;The gig was held&nbsp;at one of the most emblematic venues of the city,&nbsp;located in Le&#243;n, northern Spain.<br />
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The concert was a first for the&nbsp;Villaquilambre School of Music, with both students and teachers taking the stage to provide a stunning showcase of the talent in Spain.&nbsp;The school has had a&nbsp;tremendously&nbsp;successful first year, where hard work, and patience from active students, instructors and some prominent musicians from the local music scene should be applauded. Thanks to 'Escuela Rockschool', rock and pop qualifications are now gathering major interest in cities across the province.<br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=825" /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/9EM38kjLXy0" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=156Music for Youth National Festival 2-7 July 2012http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/9hJkw5piMvI/newsarticle.aspx<h4>This years Music for Youth National Festival, boasts four bands from Rockschool colleges. Each band battled it out at regional heats around the UK for the chance to play the National Festival, 'Amplified' days on the 5th &amp; 6th of July. With over 30 bands over two days Amplified promises again to be the liveliest part of the week. We caught up with the bands before the big show next week.&nbsp;</h4>
<h3>Inside Indigo -&nbsp;<o:p>Southampton Regional Festival</o:p> </h3>
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<td><strong>College:</strong> Alton College</td>
<td style="padding-left: 10px"><strong>Course:</strong> <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/vocationalqualifications/musicpractitioner/levelthreecertificate.aspx" target="_blank">Music Practitioners Level 3 Certificate</a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <br />
Inside Indigo all study at Alton College - a 6th form college in North East Hampshire. The group was formed during the college's Live Music Workshop - a band workshop enrichment programme that leads to a Level 3 RSL Music Practitioner qualification. Aim&#233;e Mackenzie, Hannah Rixon, Jess Holland, Kiera Fife &amp; Lucia Hornsby, are all in their first year of study at Alton College.<br />
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<h4>How has music changed or influenced individual members of your group?</h4> We are a five piece vocal harmony band from Hampshire. We all attend college together, forming at the beginning of the year. All having a passion for music and singing has really worked to our strengths and look to cover a wider genre, our covers ranging from Amy Winehouse to The Unthanks.
<h4>Has the group overcome any obstacles to their achievements in making music together?</h4> Although there have been a few personal issues in the band, (like any other group of people!) overcoming it has meant we have become a better group, as musicians and as friends. We are all extremely thrilled to have gotten through to the Nationals at Birmingham and look forward to the festival.
<h4>Any other information about group that might be of interest.</h4>This morning, Jess Holland had her 'Itsa Africa' performed by the Alton College Jazz Band at an Olympic event in the Mountbatten Centre, Portsmouth - in front of 11,000 people.<br />
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<h3>Time Will Tell - Southampton Regional Festival</h3>
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<td><strong>College:</strong> Alton College</td>
<td style="padding-left: 10px"><strong>Course:</strong> <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/vocationalqualifications/musicpractitioner/levelthreecertificate.aspx" target="_blank">Music Practitioners Level 3 Certificate</a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <br />
Time Will Tell all study at Alton College - a 6th form college in North East Hampshire. The group was formed during the college's Live Music Workshop - a band workshop enrichment programme that leads to a Level 3 RSL Music Practitioner qualification. They are all in their second year of study.<br />
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With their blend of alternative rock and pop punk, Time Will Tell are an energetic five piece from Alton, Hampshire. Formed in 2011 at Alton College, they quickly moulded into a confident and impressive outfit. Led by lively frontman Ollie Vanotzzi, the band consists of Sam Gallop and Ben Gillan on guitars, Kris Masters on bass and Will Hearne on drums. <br />
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Having been successful at the Music for Youth regional finals, they won a place to play at the HMV Institute in Birmingham with the possibility of playing at the Royal Albert Hall. <br />
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<h3>Severin - Norwich Regional Festival</h3>
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<td><strong>College:</strong> Springwood College</td>
<td style="padding-left: 10px"><strong>Course:</strong> <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/vocationalqualifications/musicpractitioner/leveltwoextendedcertificate.aspx" target="_blank">Music Practitioners Level 2 Extended Certificate</a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <br />
Severin are a 4 piece Rock/Metal band from Norfolk. Formed in the winter of 2010 Severin have played several gigs all around the county. Most recently winning the KLFM battle of the bands heat working towards supporting the Pigeon Detectives. Severin combine Rhythmic Riffs alongside Powerful vocals creating a wall of melodic heavy metal.<br />
<h4>How has music changed or influenced individual members of your group?</h4>Severin are not only talented rock musicians they also play a number of instruments between them ranging from the Trombone, Trumpet, Piano. They all have taken music exams and find that music is one of if not the biggest part of there lifes. <br />
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<h3>Feird Wish - Birmingham Regional Festival</h3>
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<td><strong>College:</strong> Kidderminster College</td>
<td style="padding-left: 10px"><strong>Course:</strong> <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/vocationalqualifications/musicpractitioner/leveltwosubsidiarydiploma.aspx" target="_blank">Music Practitioners Level 2 Subsidiary Diploma</a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <br />
FEIRD WISH are an energetic 4 piece Power Pop Rock band who will be playing a selection of their own unique compositions Catchy hooks, mind-blowing riffs and exquisite harmonies, all delivered with youthful exuberance; the band happily traversing different musical landscapes, from groovy pop-rock numbers to heavier, more aggressive territory. <br />
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<h4>How has music changed or influenced individual members of your group?</h4>Four friends who grew up together and share a passion for music. Schooled in a number of different musical traditions, they have deftly interweaved the finest elements of rock, pop and in some cases acoustic music into their own compelling mix to give themselves their own unique sound of both heavier and lighter passages in their songs.<br />
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<h4>Has the group overcome any obstacles to their achievements in making music together?</h4>&#8220;All four of us have a wide variety of tastes, but when you bring all that together, it makes for something quite unique. But more than anything else, we love melodic music, catchy melodies and upbeat rhythms, that's where we truly excel.&#8221; &#8220;We love the energy and adrenaline of live performance. There's nothing more exhilarating that seeing a raptured audience singing along to your songs.&#8221;<br />
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<h4>Any other information about group that might be of interest.</h4>Feird Wish have played many shows across the West Midlands, and their charismatic performances have generated quite a following. From heart-wrenching ballads and fist-pumping anthems to soaring vocal harmonies, they know how to put on a good show. But they're equally suited to a smaller, acoustic setting, adapting many of their own power pop anthems for a more delicate rendition; a testament both to their musicianship and to the strength and versatility of their songs. It's no surprise that fans and critics alike are enraptured by their live shows.<br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=758" /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/9hJkw5piMvI" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=149Get Discount On Your London Acoustic Guitar Show Tickethttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/d21IfxG8pgU/newsarticle.aspx<br/><br/>
The <a href="http://www.londonacousticguitarshow.com/" target="_blank">London Acoustic Guitar Show 2012</a> is aimed squarely at providing a fully dedicated two-day acoustic show for the UK acoustic guitar community. Following on the success from 2011, the show brings live stage performances and masterclasses from, <a href="http://www.newtonfaulkner.com/gb/home/" target="_blank">Newton Faulkner</a> &amp; Grant Nicholas of <a href="http://www.feederweb.com/" target="_blank">Feeder</a> as well as Neil Taylor, Thomas Leeb, Gordon Giltrap, Jim Moray and Nick Harper. <br />
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The show kicks off at the Olympia Conference Centre on Saturday 22nd &amp; 23rd September 2012. UK acoustic players will have the opportunity to observe first-hand the latest products and gear, watch the world&#8217;s top players in action performing within the 450 seated Main Stage auditorium and attend quality Masterclasses and clinics, all under one roof.
<h4>Tickets at Student Prices! </h4> Even better we're offering all Rockschoolers' an exclusive discount, saving you a HUGE &#163;7.50 on the entry price. Simply head to the London Guitar Show <a href="http://www.londonacousticguitarshow.com/get-tickets.html" target="_blank">website</a> and enter the discount code:&nbsp;<strong>stud17ent</strong> at purchase. Don't Miss Out!&nbsp;<br />
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<a href="http://www.londonacousticguitarshow.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=755" title="Find Out More!" /></a><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/d21IfxG8pgU" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=151Examiners Conference 2012http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/963lZ7nUBq8/newsarticle.aspxThe annual Rockschool examiners conference was held at Hanbury Manor&nbsp;in&nbsp;Hertfordshire&nbsp;last month. All Rockschool and <a href="http://www.performanceartsawards.com/" target="_blank">Performance Arts Awards</a>&nbsp;examiners were in attendance for the intensive three day conference which marked the official arrival of the 2012 Syllabus. Over the course of the 3 days, extensive workshops were given detailing the developments in the new Syllabus. Chief Examiner Noam Lederman was on hand to give drum workshops, whilst Publishing manager James Ujings lead the Guitar workshops. <br />
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The conference marked the beginning of a whole new standard in examining, raising the bar again in rock and pop music education.&nbsp;<br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=736" /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/963lZ7nUBq8" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=148Candidate Stories Jake Omerhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/UOz08xTIXwQ/newsarticle.aspx<img align="left" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=738" />Jake Omer is another fantastic talent who&#8217;s excelled using the Rockschool Syllabus. <br />
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At the age of just 7 Jake passed his Grade 2 Drums with Merit in Dec 2011 and is now set to take his Grade 4 exam in July. Jake's interest in drums started from a very early age, without his parents having a strong musical inclination Jake definitely appears to be a natural. At the age of four he asked for his first full size drum kit but it wasn't until age five that he got his Christmas wish on the proviso that he got professional tuition. <br />
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From five onwards Jake started professional tuition with a great local drum tutor. Right from his first lesson his teacher commented on his natural ability and actively encouraged him to read traditional notation in the aim of sitting his first exam. <br />
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Drumming has well and&nbsp;truly taken&nbsp;centre stage in Jake's life, playing in school concerts, music academy concerts, and at the end of church as well as for friends and family at every opportunity. His stylistic influences range from heavy rock to pop, with his favourite artist at the moment being the king of pop, Michael Jackson. <br />
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Achieving a Merit at Drums Grade 2 has propelled Jake's confidence. He is now looking to sit his Grade 4 exam in July, Jake will be one of the youngest Rockschool candidates to achieve this at his age. We wish him all the best from everyone here at Rockschool.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/UOz08xTIXwQ" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=1452012 Syllabus Hong Kong Drum Clinicshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/wZbI_8fLh4k/newsarticle.aspxChief Examiner Noam Lederman and world renowned clinician and pitchshifter drummer <a href="http://www.jasonbowld.com/" target="_blank">Jason Bowld</a> were in Hong Kong last month for some awe inspiring drum clinics and Diploma Seminars.<br />
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The four events which took place on the 5th, 6th, 13th and 19th of May gave students the&nbsp;opportunity to use the new 2012 Drums Syllabus in their day to day playing whilst also demonstrating how to develop great technique. The workshops were a tremendous success and a great example of the passion for rock and pop orientated music education in Hong Kong.&nbsp;<br />
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View more pictures on the Rockschool Hong Kong <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Rockschool.HK" target="_blank">Facebook page</a>.&nbsp;<br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=744" /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/wZbI_8fLh4k" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=146UK Music Student Awards 2012http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/BNqnE8UiW8g/newsarticle.aspx<img align="left" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=754" style="padding-bottom:20px ; padding-right: 20px" /> <br />
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Continuing in the success of the annual <a href="http://www.accesstomusic.co.uk/" target="_blank">Access To Music</a> Awards Ceremony launched by Sir George Martin, Access To Music joined forces with Liverpool Sound City on the 17th May to present&nbsp;a suite of national award presentations hosted by BBC Radio1&#8217;s Edith Bowman. For over 8 years this unique event has celebrated, identified and supported new talent within music education including the likes of <a href="http://edsheeran.com/" target="_blank">Ed Sheeran</a>. &nbsp;<br />
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With support from top-flight industry guests from around the world the event delivered an evening of glamorous presentations along the lines of other professional music industry award ceremonies, including international headline guest Professor Green. <br />
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Rockschool CEO, Simon Pitt was on hand to award Charlie Parker with 'Rockschool Instrumentalist of The Year' and Marty Jones with 'Rockschool Teacher of The Year'. Almost 40 wards were presented on the night with some amazing performances coming from the Royal Northern College of Music session Musician Orchestra, Kamilla Lovett, La Petit Mort, The Cutouts and many more.&nbsp;<br />
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<h3>The Awards for Rock the House took place on the Terrace of the House of Commons recently and Rockschool was there to interview the winning band Stoneway, and present their prize.</h3>
<h4>Q. How did you come up with the name Stoneway?</h4><span style="font-weight: bold; ">Danny:</span> Its two halves of the roads that Alex and I live in.&nbsp;<br />
<h4>Q. Who plays what in the band?<br />
</h4><span style="font-weight: bold; ">Sarah&nbsp;Ash:</span>&nbsp;Keys <br />
<span style="font-weight: bold; ">Danny Smith:</span>&nbsp;Lead vocals and rhythm guitar <br />
<span style="font-weight: bold; ">Ste Fisher:</span> Guitar <br />
<span style="font-weight: bold; ">Merryn Dowson:</span> Bass&nbsp;<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold; ">Alex Roberts</span>: Drums<br />
<h4>Q. Have any of the members completed a Rockschool Grade Exam?</h4><span style="font-weight: bold; ">Alex:</span> I recently got my Grade 8 Drums.<br />
<h4>Q. How did the band start?</h4><span style="font-weight: bold; ">Danny:</span> I started the band with Alex the drummer and it slowly grew. The first member to join was Ste, then Sarah and finally Merryn.
<h4>Q. When did you start gigging?</h4>Our school has an annual gig and we played at that. From that we got asked to play at a local pub and then we got more offers and we realised we had the opportunity to take it further and do it as a career.<br />
<h4>Q. How did you get to do this competition?</h4><span style="font-weight: bold; ">Sarah: </span>One of the parents saw it on the internet. We had entered last year and got nominated by our MP but we didn&#8217;t get through to the finals. We entered again this year and here we are as the winners.<br />
<h4>Q. Who wrote the song?</h4><span style="font-weight: bold; ">Danny:</span> I co-wrote it with Alex. It&#8217;s based around people breaking promises and about us being na&#239;ve.<br />
<h4>Q. Do you play covers or your own numbers?</h4><span style="font-weight: bold; ">Merryn:</span> We have about 7-8 of our own stuff and a wide set of covers covering a lot of styles.
<h4>Q. How much do you like playing to the Public?</h4><span style="font-weight: bold; ">Sarah:</span> You just want to do the best for the public and see them get into your music <br />
<span style="font-weight: bold; ">Danny:</span> Live performing is where its at for me <br />
<span style="font-weight: bold; ">Alex:</span> When I perform and get into it I&#8217;m flying <br />
<span style="font-weight: bold; ">Merryn:</span> I think its great to see people appreciate your music and see you as a not just a teenage band but great music. <br />
<span style="font-weight: bold; ">Ste: </span>I like the feeling and energy between the audience and band<br />
<h4>Q. What's the biggest gig you&#8217;ve done?<br />
</h4>Probably the O2 Academy Liverpool, it was an amazing atmosphere!&nbsp;<br />
<h4>Q. You had a great stage presence throughout the competition and it really came across that you related to each other on stage. Are you friends outside the band as well? </h4>Yes, we hang out together all the time!&nbsp;
<h4>Q. Do you all want to do music as a career?</h4>Yes, to be able to do something you love and enjoy would be incredible.<br />
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As the winning band Stoneway won an all expenses paid trip to Singapore to Headline at a Rock Concert next February.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/Ye0rMpze0hM" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=150Vocal Tips From The Man Behind The Voicehttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/2VBxNejGrdI/newsarticle.aspx<br />
<div <="" div="" style="clear:both"> Our representative and Vocals expert in Malta, Joshua Alamu has been&nbsp;privileged&nbsp;enough to work with some of the best performing artists in the industry. More recently he's been involved in the BBC hit show <span style="font-style: italic; ">The Voice</span>; auditioning singers up and down the UK. Joshua has a few tips on the auditioning process and performance as a whole.&nbsp;<br />
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<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; text-align: center; "><a href="http://www.madaboutthevoice.com/JoshuaAlamu/Joshua-Alamu.html" target="_blank"><img title="Joshua Alamu" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=623" /></a></p><br />
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<h3>Josh's Tips</h3>
<h5>1) Choose the right song</h5> A song can make or break a singer; this is such an important part of your preparation. Do a song that best shows of the BEST features of your voice and your musical style.<br />
<h5>2) Own it</h5> The amount of times I have heard Adele&#8217;s &#8220;Some one like you&#8221;, don&#8217;t get me wrong, I love Adele, but do not come into an audition and just sing a carbon copy of the song mimicking all the vocal nuances and traits of that singer&#8230; do something that is tasteful but unique with the song too.<br />
<h5>3) Bring it</h5> You have a very short time to impress and this can usually be the opportunity that opens many other doors for you as a singer, do not go into an audition unclear of what you must do, go in there and &#8220;hit&#8221; them with your best performance that you have prepared and give it your best shot! Bring your &#8216;A&#8217; game.<br />
<h5>4) Prepare, prepare, prepare</h5> The 5 &#8220;P&#8217;s&#8221; (Prepare &amp; Perfect in Private in order to freely Perform in Public) There were some people that walked into the audition singing with lyrics in their hands, this is an absolute NO! Please prepare yourself in advance so that you can freely express publicly what you have studied and perfected in the privacy of personal preparation&#8230;(wow, so many &#8220;P&#8217;s&#8221;)<br />
<h5>5) Image&nbsp;</h5> Make sure you look great, do not go over the top, again be tasteful with what you wear and look trendy and comfortable in what you wear. Go with a very neutral look, so that you have the right balance of everything you want to be perceived as. Once you make it, there are fashion professionals that will take your image to the next level.<br />
<h5>6) Confidence</h5> It is such an awkward and nerve racking experience doing these types of audition, do what ever it takes to ensure that you are confident in your ability as a singer&#8230; when the butterflies come and the legs turn to jelly, switch on your self belief, realise that you have worked hard to get to that point and that this is your chance to really shine and show what you have developed and worked on. It&#8217;s a bit like working on a painting you have been doing from scratch; first doing the outline, then the sketch then the colours and detail etc, eventually you are ready to display it and show everyone your master piece, believe in your ability and in the hard work you have done - take confidence in that!<br />
<h5>7) Know who you are</h5> Sometimes rejection can be the worst thing to handle in any area of life but knowing who you are before you put yourself into such situations is so important. This means even if you get a &#8220;NO&#8221; or &#8220;sorry you are not good enough&#8221;, even though this bruises our pride and wounds our ego&#8217;s, you have to walk out of there with your head held high and say to yourself, &#8220;this does not determine who I am becoming as a singer&#8221;. <br />
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Where you are now, is not where you will be in a year&#8217;s time if you keep working on your gift. Find a real professional that can give you an honest account of where you are as a singer and what you need to do to improve as a singer/artist and potentially if you really do have the talent to compete at that level. Take that rejection as an opportunity to work harder and hone those skills and to get a good sense of artistic direction. Knowing who you are means that no matter what people say, you can still stand your ground and say to yourself, &#8220;what I have inside me is good enough to develop and I know I can come back again much stronger and better with some consistent hard work&#8221; or it might even be you saying.. &#8220;OK.. I gave it my best shot, and now I know that this is not what I want and this is not what I am gifted at&#8221; &#8230; and that is cool too.<br />
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You can find out more about Josh and his workings in the industry over at <a href="http://www.madaboutthevoice.com/JoshuaAlamu/Joshua-Alamu.html" target="_blank">madaboutthevoice.com</a>&nbsp;<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/2VBxNejGrdI" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=140Competition: Win the 2012 Syllabus Instrumentshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/xs59we6hHS8/newsarticle.aspxTo celebrate the launch of the 2012 Syllabus we're giving 3 lucky winners the opportunity to win 1 of the 3 instruments used on the 2012 Syllabus book covers!<br />
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The prizes are:
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<li>Fender: Standard Telecaster Arctic White with Maple Neck</li>
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<p>Fender: Standard Jazz Bass Guitar Arctic White with Maple Neck</p></li>
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<p>Mapex: 14 x 5.5 Saturn Snare Arctic white with black hardware</p></li></ul></td>
<td> <img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/Miscellaneous/2012SyllabusCompetitionImage.png" style="padding-left: 40px" /> </td></tr> </tbody></table>
<h4>2012 Syllabus</h4>The new 2012-2018 Rockschool Guitar, Bass and Drums Syllabus is now available to buy on Musicroom. The 2012 Syllabus is the culmination of 21 years of experience and understanding of rock and pop music education. For the new Syllabus we have employed some of the most sought after professional musicians to ensure that our tunes are the most authentic on offer.<br />
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The 2012 tracks were recorded in one of the United Kingdom&#8217;s top studios by Grammy-nominated producer, Nick Davis. Nick has worked with bands and artists such as Deep Purple, Genesis, Bj&#246;rk and XTC. Every track features live instrumentation and first-rate performances for an unrivalled level of feel, authenticity and musicianship. Find out more about the <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/2012syllabus" target="_self">2012 Syllabus</a>. <br />
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<a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/competitions/201205/" target="_self">Enter the competition now</a>!<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/xs59we6hHS8" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=1442012 Syllabus Behind The Scenes - Larry Carlton Interviewhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/aR8OHhg4JH0/newsarticle.aspx<img align="left" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=693" style="padding-bottom: 20px" /><br />
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<h3>Session veteran and Grammy-winning solo artist Larry Carlton features on two tracks of Rockschool&#8217;s 2012 Syllabus. Editorial Manager Stephen Lawson caught up with Larry after the red light dimmed on his awe-inspiring recording sessions.</h3>
<h5><br />
Q: You have a very nuanced style; you seem to use every available technique to give your solos their expressive quality. How much of that is down to your jazz background? </h5><em> <br />
</em>&#8220;I think a lot of that comes from the jazz guys I <span style="font-style: italic; ">listened</span> to in my younger years. I think most of us, whether guitar players or other musicians, we try to emulate what has touched us emotionally as we&#8217;ve listened to other players. And the things that you&#8217;re hearing, that you&#8217;ve described as nuances in my playing, obviously I heard those some place and responded emotionally to them. So you try to emulate that and pretty soon, as your technique gets better and you gain more experience, you&#8217;re able to show your own emotion because you&#8217;ve heard those kinds of nuances [in other musicians&#8217; playing]&quot;.<em> </em>
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Q: How old were you when you started studying jazz?</h5><br />
&#8220;I was around 14 when I became interested in jazz. I never took jazz guitar lessons. I learned the jazz stuff by listening to records and copying &#8211; and <span style="font-style: italic; ">analysing</span>. That&#8217;s the bit I like to focus on when I&#8217;m talking to students at clinics. I didn&#8217;t just learn a passage by Joe Pass. I learned it, but then I analysed it: &#8216;Why did he play those notes right there against that chord?&#8217; That&#8217;s where the knowledge comes in. You can cop a lick or cop a solo, but to understand how or why it could work against those changes&#8230; that opens it up for you to play over changes yourself because you have a knowledge of it.&quot;<br />
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<h5>Q: You have said that you think like a composer and arranger even when you are improvising. Can you describe how you came up with the solos on our tracks? </h5><br />
&#8220;I think it&#8217;s my basic approach. Normally I start with some kind of a motif and it&#8217;s usually simple. So then I have the opportunity to develop that motif and not just play a bunch of notes. I&#8217;m aware of the first [musical] statement, I usually emulate that first statement again and that leads me down the path of making a composition out of something rather than just playing a bunch of notes on the guitar. That&#8217;s a compositional technique that the classical composers used years ago. They always started with a motif then a reiteration of the motif, and they would play the motif backwards sometimes after they&#8217;d developed it a little further and it became a composition rather than just some piano notes.&#8221;<em> </em>
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Q: Did you use your original &#8217;69 Gibson ES-335 or your signature LC model on our tracks, &#8216;Striped Shirt&#8217; and &#8216;Mind The Gaps&#8217;? </h5><br />
&#8220;I used my original. That&#8217;s the one I had in the studio on the days I was working on those. I take it with me on the road still. I was given a gift by a fan, maybe five years ago now. A fan contacted me at my office and said that he had a 1968 ES-335 that had been sitting in a closet at his grandmother&#8217;s or his aunt&#8217;s house. 17 years untouched. In his note he said, &#8216;You&#8217;re my favourite guitarist and I would like to give you this guitar as your backup if you like it.&#8217; It was basically a virgin 1968 and it sounded and played wonderfully &#8211; so I accepted his gift! Sometimes over the last three years I&#8217;ve taken that out on the road just for a change of feel.&#8221;<em> </em>
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Q: Can you confirm, is your original 335 a &#8217;68 or a &#8217;69? There seems to be some disagreement online.</h5><br />
&#8220;I believe it&#8217;s a &#8217;69. Although I always thought it was a &#8217;68, but I think I&#8217;ve learned from my [guitar] tech over the years&#8230; I don&#8217;t pay much attention to that stuff! [Laughs]&#8221;<em> </em>
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Q: Which amp did you use to record?</h5><br />
&#8220;I used my Bludotone. I stopped using Dumble about three years or so ago. My Dumbles were getting very tired and Mr Dumble has some health issues. It was getting harder and harder to communicate with him as far as getting my amps to him and having him keep them up to date. So I met [Bludotone&#8217;s] Brandon Montgomery, a small, custom amp maker who knows exactly how to copy a Dumble. I gave him my Dumbles and he matched the tone, all the components&#8230; I&#8217;m very happy with my Bludotone, so that&#8217;s what I used on those tracks.&#8221;<em> </em>
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Q: We've worked hard to make our exam pieces as credible as possible. Can you give us your impression of them in terms of composition and production? </h5><br />
&#8220;I immediately noticed how each composition encompasses many techniques as opposed to just a song with certain techniques. You have to be able to play 16th notes, you have to be able to slide, you have to be able to bend, you have to be able to change time signatures &#8211; &#8216;Mind The Gaps&#8217; was straight eighth notes until the solo then it was a shuffle. All of those things will be great tools for students to work on and I think these compositions will really challenge them and open doors for them because they have to play those different kinds of styles.&#8221; <br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold; ">You can hear Larry Carlton&#8217;s signature sound on the Grade 6 piece &#8216;Striped Shirt&#8217; and Grade 8&#8217;s &#8216;Mind The Gaps&#8217;, both from Rockschool&#8217;s 2012 </span><a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/gradedmusicexams/guitar/" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: bold; ">Guitar syllabus</span></a><span style="font-weight: bold; ">.&nbsp;</span><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/aR8OHhg4JH0" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=143Introduction To Guitar Grade 1: Lesson Nine General Musicianship Questionshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/yJ25XU5jKhU/newsarticle.aspxThe final part of our Grade 1 step-by-step guide. In this lesson we tie everything up with the General Musicianship Questions part of the exam and the salient facts about your instrument.<br />
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<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=633">Lesson 9 Guide</a></strong><br />
(567KB, 2 pages, .pdf)</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<td class="Icon"><img id="ZipIconGuitarGradeThree" class="Zip" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/IconZip.gif" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=575">Gone But Not Forgotten Audio Tracks</a></strong><br />
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<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/16202734?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" width="560" height="420" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen="" mozallowfullscreen="" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/yJ25XU5jKhU" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=142Introduction To Guitar Grade 1: Lesson Eight Ear Testshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/TvVY-t7Cqjs/newsarticle.aspxIn every walk of life being a great listener will get you far. Your ears already have a degree of musical perception, in this lesson we'll teach you how to hone those musical ears.
<h4>Resources</h4>Use the audio and pdf guide to work through the video lesson. &nbsp;<br />
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<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=628">Lesson 8 Guide</a></strong><br />
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<td class="Icon"><img id="ZipIconGuitarGradeThree" class="Zip" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/IconZip.gif" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=575">Gone But Not Forgotten Audio Tracks</a></strong><br />
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<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/16201985?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" width="500" height="375" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen="" mozallowfullscreen="" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/TvVY-t7Cqjs" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=141Introduction To Guitar Grade 1 : Lesson 7 - Improvisation & Interpretationhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/oHSOXLTorWw/newsarticle.aspxIsn't being creative the best part of being a musician? Playing your own material is something to be proud of. In this lesson we go through the Improvisation and Interpretation part of the exam and how to develop your own improvisation skills.
<h4>Resources</h4>Use the audio and pdf guide to work through the video lesson. &nbsp;<br />
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<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=620">Lesson 7 Guide</a></strong><br />
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<td class="Icon"><img id="ZipIconGuitarGradeThree" class="Zip" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/IconZip.gif" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=575">Gone But Not Forgotten Audio Tracks</a></strong><br />
(2.15MB, .zip)</td></tr></tbody></table> <br />
<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/16200854?portrait=0" width="500" height="405" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen="" mozallowfullscreen="" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/oHSOXLTorWw" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=139Introduction To Guitar Grade 1: Lesson Six Sight Reading (Part 2)http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/TS5m5m_YosE/newsarticle.aspxThis the second part of our sight reading section. Give drummers a run for their money. We take you through all the know how when reading rhythmic notation.
<h4>Resources</h4>Use the audio and pdf guide to work through the video lesson. &nbsp;<br />
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<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=603">Lesson 6 Guide</a></strong><br />
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<td class="Icon"><img id="ZipIconGuitarGradeThree" class="Zip" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/IconZip.gif" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=575">Gone But Not Forgotten Audio Tracks</a></strong><br />
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<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/16173952" width="500" height="375" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen="" mozallowfullscreen="" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/TS5m5m_YosE" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=138Rockschool Continues To Rock In Bilbaohttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/ig37wVC_VCQ/newsarticle.aspxRockschool's outfit in Spain (Mr.Jam) has teamed up with FNAC to develop monthly showcases of the best up and coming talent in the area. The first live showcase took place last week with duo and trio acts delivering powerful rock and pop performances on their Bilbao live stage. These monthly gigs are a great opportunity for students to be part of the live music scene in the city and further develop their performance skills on a high profile stage.<br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=599" style="text-align:center" /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/ig37wVC_VCQ" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=135Candidate Stories: Dillon Harrisonhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/_Ud_AAMca8o/newsarticle.aspx<img align="left" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=583" style="padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 7px; padding-below: 13px" />
<h4>Bio</h4>Dillon Harrison was just 8 years old when he took his Drums Grade 4 Exam passing with a high distinction of 91%. Dillon&nbsp;began learning over two years ago with his Dad at home before eventually going to his teacher Jack&nbsp;Nicholson&nbsp;just over a year ago for regular lessons. <br />
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Since then Dillon's worked solidly on his playing style, technique, balance and reading skills, all of which have been incredibly important and influential in his outstanding mark in his Grade 4 Exam.&nbsp;Dillon lives in Halifax, West Yorkshire and has a keen interest in all things music, particularly rock and progressive rock. He has an extremely mature music taste for your average 9 year old, listening to bands such as, 'Porcupine Tree', 'Led Zeppelin' and 'Everything Everything'. <br />
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Dillon cites his favourite drummers as Gavin Harrison&nbsp;(Porcupine Tree),&nbsp;John Bonham&nbsp;and&nbsp;Thomas Lang,&nbsp;all of which he's moulded and developed his own style around. Dillon uses his drumming idols as a constant source of development,&nbsp;when a &quot;fill&quot; or &quot;develop&quot; crops up in a Rockschool piece he never ceases to try adding some Harrison licks in there for some fun! He also loves and has formed his own attempts at playing &quot;Bonham triplet&quot; patterns, managing to incorporate them into his solo in 'Wouldn't it Be Wonderful'.&nbsp;<br />
<h4>Practice Schedule</h4>Dillon's practice schedule usually revolves around 80+ minute solid slots a day (including rudiments on a pad before school) and has begun looking at some advanced rhythmical techniques including displacement. <br />
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<span style="font-style: italic">&quot;Dillon's already developed great technique, in fact his technique has been so impressive that he managed to get 15/15 on his technical exercises in his exam&quot;</span>&nbsp;-&nbsp;<span style="font-weight: bold">Jack Nicholson</span>.&nbsp;<br />
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Thrilled with his 91% Distinction at Grade 4 Dillon is looking forward to taking his Grade 5 this spring.<br />
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If you've got a story you'd like to send in about yourself or student, please send it to <a href="mailto:brand@rockschool.co.uk" target="_blank">brand@rockschool.co.uk</a><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/_Ud_AAMca8o" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=127Candidate Stories: Ayla Gezmishttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/-E2-hQWaQE8/newsarticle.aspx<img align="left" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=584" style="padding-right: 10px; padding-below: 20px" /> Ayla Gezmis, age 9 from Skellingthorpe near Lincoln is another young talent that's excelled using the Rockschool Syllabus. Ayla began Guitar lessons in April 2010, then aged 8, as a complete beginner. <br />
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Starting from the ground up Ayla began with the Guitar Debut book and quickly worked her way up, taking her Guitar Grade 1 &nbsp;by Christmas, and passing with Distinction. Fast forward to the summer of 2011 and she had already passed her Grade 3 exam followed shortly by a Merit at Grade 5 this Christmas.&nbsp;<br />
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It's an amazing achievement, and a credit to her hard work, natural talent, and supportive parents. Her teacher Dan Clark is astonished by how quickly she's picked up the guitar and likewise is extremely proud of her achievements so far. Ayla is hoping to have her Grade 8 before she begins secondary school and Dan has no doubt that she will.&nbsp;From everyone here at Rockschool we wish her the best of luck! &nbsp;<br />
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If you've got a story you'd like to send in about yourself or student, please send it to <a href="mailto:brand@rockschool.co.uk" target="_blank">brand@rockschool.co.uk</a>&nbsp;<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/-E2-hQWaQE8" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=128Music Practitioners Qualifications and Level 3 Grade Exams Remain on Performance Tableshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/gFfiM3-g4gQ/newsarticle.aspx<br />
Following publication of the <a href="https://www.education.gov.uk/publications/standard/publicationDetail/Page1/DFE-00031-2011" target="_blank">Wolf Report</a> in 2011, the Department for Education announced <a href="http://www.education.gov.uk/schools/teachingandlearning/qualifications/a00202523/reform-of-14-to-16-performance-tables" target="_blank">reforms</a> to the School Performance Tables for pre-16 learners. The reforms have led to a drastic cut in the number of Vocational Qualifications which will count towards a schools achievement; however we are pleased to confirm Rockschool&#8217;s Music Practitioners Qualifications will continue to contribute to the headline measures for schools.&nbsp;For those beginning courses in 2012 both the Level 1 and 2 Certificate and Extended Certificate will remain on the performance tables. <br />
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In the meantime we are designing new versions of these qualifications to fully adhere to the requirements outlined by the government, we hope to have these updated qualifications available by the end of 2012.<br />
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For all of you sitting Grade Exams, our Level 3 (Grades 6, 7 &amp; 8) are also included in the school's performance tables.&nbsp;<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/gFfiM3-g4gQ" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=134Vocals Syllabus Update - Part 1http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/MousmqdHii8/newsarticle.aspx<strong><br />
Great news! </strong>We've updated our Vocals Syllabus with brand new tunes for both Male and Female Vocals. Ranging from Lady Gaga to Rage Against The Machine, you can now choose from a whole range of new repertoire. Take a look at <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/gradedmusicexams/vocals/syllabusupdate/pageone.aspx " target="_self">part 1 of our list</a>.<br />
<br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/MousmqdHii8" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=132Introduction To Guitar Grade 1: Lesson Five Sight Reading (Part 1)http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/TlLMC3llu-I/newsarticle.aspx&nbsp;<br />
Learn to read...again? Ever wondered what those squiggly dotes with lines were in music books? In this lesson we teach you all the basics you need to know about sight reading, you might find you even enjoy it!&nbsp;
<h4>Resources</h4>Use the audio and pdf guide to work through the video lesson. &nbsp;<br />
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<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=597">Lesson 5 Guide</a></strong><br />
(567KB, 2 pages, .pdf)</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<td class="Icon"><img id="ZipIconGuitarGradeThree" class="Zip" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/IconZip.gif" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=575">Gone But Not Forgotten Audio Tracks</a></strong><br />
(2.15MB, .zip)</td></tr></tbody></table> <br />
<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/16172643" width="500" height="375" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen="" mozallowfullscreen="" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/TlLMC3llu-I" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=133Introduction To Guitar Grade 1: Lesson Four Technical Exerciseshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/M8jnjsYK8pg/newsarticle.aspx&nbsp;<br />
Practice, practice, practice. Lesson four will arm you with the tools you need to develop your scales, chords and riffs.
<h4>Resources</h4>Use the audio and pdf guide to work through the video lesson. &nbsp;<br />
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<td class="Icon"><img class="AdobeReader" id="imgAdobeReaderIcon" alt="Adobe Reader Icon" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/IconAdobeReader.gif" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=585">Lesson 4 Guide</a></strong><br />
(567KB, 2 pages, .pdf)</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<td class="Icon"><img id="ZipIconGuitarGradeThree" class="Zip" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/IconZip.gif" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=575">Gone But Not Forgotten Audio Tracks</a></strong><br />
(2.15MB, .zip)</td></tr></tbody></table> <br />
<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/16170874" width="500" height="375" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen="" mozallowfullscreen="" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/M8jnjsYK8pg" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=131Introduction To Guitar Grade 1: Lesson Three Rhythmhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/ykYcGvusr7U/newsarticle.aspx&nbsp;<br />
Rhythm, every guitarist needs it. In this lesson we focus on the importance of rhythm guitar and some great tips to master your technique.
<h4>Resources</h4>Use the audio and pdf guide to work through the video lesson. &nbsp;<br />
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<td class="Icon"><img class="AdobeReader" id="imgAdobeReaderIcon" alt="Adobe Reader Icon" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/IconAdobeReader.gif" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=582">Lesson 3 Guide</a></strong><br />
(607KB, 2 pages, .pdf)</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<td class="Icon"><img id="ZipIconGuitarGradeThree" class="Zip" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/IconZip.gif" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=575">Gone But Not Forgotten Audio Tracks</a></strong><br />
(2.15MB, .zip)</td></tr></tbody></table> <br />
<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/16169607" width="500" height="375" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen="" mozallowfullscreen="" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/ykYcGvusr7U" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=130Introduction To Guitar Grade 1: Lesson Two Chordshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/_2vOU_H76HA/newsarticle.aspx&nbsp;<br />
Behind every great song there's a great chord progression. In the second of our nine part tutorial for Guitar Grade 1 we take you through the importance of timing and the relation of different chord patterns.
<h4>Resources</h4>Use the audio and pdf guide to work through the video lesson. &nbsp;<br />
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<td class="Icon"><img class="AdobeReader" id="imgAdobeReaderIcon" alt="Adobe Reader Icon" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/IconAdobeReader.gif" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=580">Lesson 2 Guide</a></strong><br />
(607KB, 2 pages, .pdf)</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<td class="Icon"><img id="ZipIconGuitarGradeThree" class="Zip" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/IconZip.gif" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=575">Gone But Not Forgotten Audio Tracks</a></strong><br />
(2.15MB, .zip)</td></tr></tbody></table> <br />
<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/16168769?byline=0" width="600" height="385" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen="" mozallowfullscreen="" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/_2vOU_H76HA" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=129Former Editor of Total Guitar Joins Rockschoolhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/cP7DmNL2v6k/newsarticle.aspx<br />
<img align="left" width="160" height="226" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=578" style="padding-right: 15px" /> Rockschool is delighted to announce that Stephen Lawson, former editor of Total Guitar, has joined Rockschool&#8217;s publishing team as head of editorial. Steve will bring a wealth of experience (and industry contacts) to the job. He will begin work on the final stages of our new Guitar, Bass and Drum syllabuses, due later in 2012.<br />
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<h4>Biography</h4>During his time as Editor of Total Guitar Stephen steered the magazine to its highest ever circulation and interviewed some of the biggest names in guitar music, from Slash to Zakk Wylde and Ozzy Osbourne. <br />
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<span style="font-style: italic; ">&quot;Ozzy was my favourite interview. I met him in his Home Counties Tudor pile, expecting mayhem. When he offered me a drink, I accepted but was slightly disappointed to find a bottle of Orangina thrust into my hand. Still, from a journalist's point of view, I suppose a sober Ozzy's better than a squiffy Ozzy!&quot;<br />
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</span><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/cP7DmNL2v6k" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=126Success Stories: Ed Sheeranhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/HSmCfszF_zM/newsarticle.aspx<br />
<img align="left" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=553" style="padding-right: 20px" />Rockschool Vocational Qualification student Ed Sheeran to headline Wakestock, 2012 looks set to be even more hectic than 2011 for ex Rockschool Music Practitioners and Creative Practitioners student Ed Sheeran. <br />
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Ed, who studied at Access to Music London and Access to Music Norwich, received a&nbsp;Distinction on the Level 4 Creative Practitioners Diploma and&nbsp;has now scored consecutive top 5 hits in 2011 and went on to top the charts with his debut album &#8216;+&#8217;. He has now been announced as the first confirmed headliner for Wakestock 2012 which takes place at Cardigan Bay between the 6-8th July.<br />
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Speaking about his course Ed said: <br />
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<span style="font-style: italic; ">&quot;I loved the freedom. Obviously you are there to learn, but they understood that half of the learning you needed for the industry was outside the classroom with gigs and studio time. It game me the first push, the opportunity to move to London and the freedom to gig and record whenever I could.&quot;</span> -&nbsp;<a href="http://www.accesstomusic.co.uk/success-stories" target="_blank">Access To Music&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;<br />
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<h4>Brit Awards</h4> Ed has also been recently nominated for a total of four Brit awards, scoring nods in the Best British Male Solo Artist, Best British Album Of The Year, Best British Breakthrough Act and also Best Single. Ed will face the likes of Noel Gallagher, Coldplay, Adele, Jessie J and The Wanted as he fights to be named one of the top solo artists in Britain. <a href="http://www.brits.co.uk/voting" target="_blank">Vote for Ed</a><br />
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<h4>&nbsp;You can also find Ed on: </h4></td></tr>
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<td><a href="http://www.facebook.com/EdSheeranMusic" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=554" style="padding-right: 10px" /></a><a href="https://twitter.com/#!/edsheeran" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=555" style="padding-right: 10px" /></a><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/EdSheeran?gl=GB&hl=en-GB" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=558" style="padding-bottom: 4px" /></a></td></tr></tbody></table>
<div style="clear:both;"></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/HSmCfszF_zM" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=122Top 5 Metronome Apps for iPhonehttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/FRZfc3Non-I/newsarticle.aspxWith a vast array of smart phones and ever increasing possibilities to incorporate the latest apps with your practice, the convenience of having an easy to use metronome in your pocket has never been more readily available. Here are our top 5 metronome apps for home practice and live gigging. <br />
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<td><a href="http://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/gigbaby!-four-track-recorder/id299609269?mt=8" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=563" style="padding-right: 10px" /></a> </td>
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<h4>'Gig baby'&nbsp;</h4> <strong>Price: &#163;0.69<br />
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This is a great little app that not only acts as metronome for practice but also includes a four track recorder with drum machine so you can lay down your own material. It comes with a bunch of standard rhythm tracks that cover all the main genres (Rock, Pop, Jazz, Latin etc). <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/gigbaby!-four-track-recorder/id299609269?mt=8" target="_blank">View App<br />
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<td><a href="http://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/steinway-metronome/id393021343?mt=8" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=564" style="padding-right: 10px" /></a></td>
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<h4>'Steinway Metronome'</h4> <strong>Price: FREE</strong></td> </tr></tbody></table>&nbsp;<br />
A brilliant little app developed by Steinway pianos that is extremely accurate and robust. The interface is really easy to use and looks great too. The app lets you choose from 10 different time signatures so even the more experienced players can get the most out of it. You can even change the d&#233;cor of the dashboard. Again completely free so get downloading!&nbsp;<a href="http://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/steinway-metronome/id393021343?mt=8" target="_blank">View App</a>&nbsp;<br />
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<td><a href="http://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/metronome/id287965434?mt=8" target="_self"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=565" style="padding-right: 10px" /></a></td>
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<h4>'Metronome&#8217;&nbsp;</h4><strong>Price: FREE</strong></td></tr></tbody></table> <br />
One the simplest and most downloaded Metronome apps in the iTunes store, this is both easy to use and does exactly what it says on the tin &#8211; keeps you in time! Perfect for the beginner, the app affords you the choice of 3 different time signatures, 2/4, 3/4 and 4/4, slightly limiting but yet again it&#8217;s&nbsp;free!&nbsp;<a href="http://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/metronome/id287965434?mt=8" target="_blank">View App</a>&nbsp;<br />
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<h4>'Tempo'</h4><strong>Price: &#163;1.99</strong></td> </tr></tbody></table><br />
A little more expensive than the rest, however with the price tag comes a great amount of versatility and reliability, medium to experienced players can really get the most out of this app. The &#8216;Metronome: Tempo&#8217; app has&nbsp;whopping&nbsp;35 different time signatures including compound and complex meters. It even features the option to customize accents or turn beats on/off which can really help when choosing the right metronome style for you. <br />
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Another great feature which is really handy for all Rockschool students is the ability to use the app alongside your own music.&nbsp;It also gives you the option of saving, and managing your set lists to really make use of your practice time.&nbsp;<a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/metronome/id304731501?mt=8" target="_blank">View App<br />
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<td><a href="http://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/subdivide-metronome/id370561485?mt=8" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=567" style="padding-right: 10px" /></a></td>
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<h4>'Subdivide'</h4><strong>Price: &#163;2.99</strong></td></tr></tbody></table><br />
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At &#163;2.99 this certainly isn&#8217;t cheap but what you get for your money is a really solid metronome that is both initiative and reliable. Teachers you can plug this into speakers if you&#8217;re teaching a number of different students or want to broadcast the click to a band/ensemble. It also supports airplay for wireless speakers.&nbsp;<a href="http://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/subdivide-metronome/id370561485?mt=8" target="_blank">View App</a><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/FRZfc3Non-I" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=123Introduction To Guitar Grade 1 : Getting Startedhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/nqxFLDl9XSA/newsarticle.aspxLearning something new is never easy, over the next 9 weeks we'll take you through every aspect of the&nbsp;Guitar&nbsp;Grade 1 exam. Every week we'll introduce you to a new section of the exam so you can digest it in easily&nbsp;manageable&nbsp;chunks. Use each lesson as an introduction to our syllabus.&nbsp;<br />
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<h4>Resources</h4><br />
Use the audio and pdf guide to work through the video lesson<br />
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<td class="Icon"><img class="AdobeReader" id="imgAdobeReaderIcon" alt="Adobe Reader Icon" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/IconAdobeReader.gif" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=576">Lesson 1 Guide</a></strong><br />
(607KB, 2 pages, .pdf)</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<td class="Icon"><img id="ZipIconGuitarGradeThree" class="Zip" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/IconZip.gif" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=575">Gone But Not Forgotten Audio Tracks</a></strong><br />
(2.15MB, .zip)</td></tr></tbody></table> <br />
<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/16167813?byline=0" width="600" height="385" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen="" mozallowfullscreen="" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
<div <="" div="" style="clear:both"></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/nqxFLDl9XSA" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=124Music For Youth: Regional Festivalshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/MGIND9q32o4/newsarticle.aspx<br />
<img align="left" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=372" style="padding-right: 10px; " />The world&#8217;s largest youth music festival takes place throughout February, March and April with over 50,000 musicians and singers taking part. Regional Festivals provide a unique opportunity for groups to perform to new audiences, listen to other groups from their area and get valuable feedback from the team of MFY Music Mentors. <br />
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If you're in a band you can <a href="http://entry.mfy.org.uk/entry/mfyform.aspx" target="_blank">enter online</a> now for the chance to perform live. <br />
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Bands already confirmed from Rockschool centres:&nbsp;<br />
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<td><strong>The Fretz</strong>&nbsp;- Norwich (Rock, Pop and Urban) 2012<br />
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<td><strong>Wonderful Broken Things</strong>&nbsp;- Stockton-on-Tees (Rock, Pop and Urban) 2012<br />
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<td><strong>JessAmy</strong>&nbsp;- Stockton-on-Tees (Rock, Pop and Urban) 2012<br />
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<td><strong>Eleven Minutes Of Fame</strong>&nbsp;- Stockton-on-Tees (Rock, Pop and Urban) 2012<br />
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<td><strong>The Hoi Polloi -&nbsp;</strong>Norwich (Rock, Pop and Urban) 2012<br />
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<td><strong>Atraxi</strong>&nbsp;- London (Rock, Pop and Urban) 2012<br />
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<td><strong>Wind Up Bird -&nbsp;</strong>Norwich (Rock, Pop and Urban) 2012<br />
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<td><strong>The Cut Outs -&nbsp;</strong>Norwich (Rock, Pop and Urban) 2012<br />
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<td><strong>State of Mind -&nbsp;</strong>(London (Rock, Pop and Urban) 2012<br />
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<td><strong>Bye Bye Jellyfish -&nbsp;</strong>Southampton (Rock, Pop and Urban) 2012<br />
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<td><strong>Perfect Fifth -</strong> Southampton (Rock, Pop and Urban) 2012<br />
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<td><strong>Time Will Tell -</strong> Southampton (Rock, Pop and Urban) 2012<br />
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<td><strong>Simplicity -&nbsp;</strong>Southampton (Rock, Pop and Urban) 2012<br />
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<td><strong>The Dynamics -&nbsp;</strong>Stockton-on-Tees (Rock, Pop and Urban) 2012<br />
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<td><strong>Ecnamor</strong>&nbsp;- Birmingham (Rock, Pop and Urban) 2012<br />
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<td><strong>The Driveaways -&nbsp;</strong>Southampton (Rock, Pop and Urban) 2012<br />
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<td><strong>The Riot Act -&nbsp;</strong>Birmingham (Rock, Pop and Urban) 2012<br />
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<td><strong>No Name</strong> (Rockschool) - Stockton-on-Tees (Rock, Pop and Urban) 2012</td></tr></tbody></table><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/MGIND9q32o4" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=125New Music Educator Qualification Starting In Jan 2012http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/uRqzPQn4xmg/newsarticle.aspx<br />
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<img align="left" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=547" style="padding-below: 10px; padding-right: 10px" />Rockschool partner, <a href="http://www.accesstomusic.co.uk/" target="_self">Access to Music</a>, has a new music teacher training opportunity starting in January. By taking this course you will gain a qualification which will enable you to teach in Further Education colleges through gaining qualified associate teacher status.<br />
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The <a href="http://www.accesstomusic.co.uk/music-educator-cttls-university-level_15" target="_self">course</a> enables you to learn how to pass on your musical skills to others covering areas such as understanding how people learn, planning and delivery, teaching and learning strategies and assessment. You will have to undertake at least 30 hours teaching during the course. This can be at an ATM centre.<br />
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The <a href="http://www.accesstomusic.co.uk/music-educator-cttls-university-level_15" target="_self">Music Educator</a> course is being offered to over 18s in Brighton, Lincoln, London and Norwich. The course lasts for 6 months and is delivered flexibly, meaning you only have to formally attend eight 2-day (weekend) sessions. At the end you will come out with a City &amp; Guilds Certificate in Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector (CTTLS). <a href="http://www.accesstomusic.co.uk/music-educator-cttls-university-level_15" target="_self">Apply Now</a><br />
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<img align="right" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=548" />
<div style="clear:both;"></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/uRqzPQn4xmg" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=121Rockschool Student Receives Recognition In Bass Guitar Magazinehttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/HW3Zznr43Ws/newsarticle.aspx<a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=543" target="blank"><img title="Click to view feature" align="left" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=541" style="padding-right: 10px" /></a>Rockschool student Aaron Jacques recently took Grade 5 bass and passed with a distinction, at only 15 years old this is an amazing achievement for any aspiring young bassist, and to top it off he also features in this month's Bass Guitar Magazine.<br />
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Aaron started playing bass when he was just 9 and slowly worked his way up through his Rockschool Grades with guidance from his tutor Rory, at RWPBASSTUITION. Citing Flea as his bass hero, Aaron has developed into a mature player using the Rockschool grades as a stepping stone to explore different music styles out of his peripheries.<br />
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A big well done to Aaron from everyone here, its always a pleasure to see Rockschool student's being recognised for their achievements.&nbsp;<br />
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<td><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=543" target="blank">Read the full article</a> by clicking on the picture or by grabbing yourself a copy of Bass Guitar magazine at your nearest newsagents.&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
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<br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/HW3Zznr43Ws" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=120'Play Something' Academy Receives MIA Recognitionhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/coUH59GEsGw/newsarticle.aspx<img align="left" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=535" style="padding-right: 10px" /> Playsomething&#8217;s Academy scooped its first national award last night at the national Music Industry Association&#8217;s awards ceremony at Grosvenor Square Hotel, Park Lane, London. The event hosted the Music Industries finest retailers and manufacturers from across the UK for an evening of awards for outstanding product and contribution into the music Industry.<br />
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Playsomething were awarded the much coveted Music Maker award for recognition of their work in creating and developing musicians. Playsomething&#8217;s latest development of the Academy, a full time Diploma course for 16-18 year olds, partnered with Hertford Regional College has been a huge success and is already heavily endorsed by many major manufacturers. The Diploma is Rockschool&#8217;s <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/vocationalqualifications/musicpractitioner/levelthreediploma.aspx" target="_self">Level 3 Music Practioner</a> course with a focus on performance and instrument. Founder Jon Bliss commented:&nbsp;<br />
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<img align="right" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=537" style='padding-left:10px"' /> <em>&quot;We are very proud to gain recognition of our hard work and commitment to providing the very best Musical Instrument tuition in Hertfordshire. I would like to thank the college, Rockschool, schools and manufacturers that believe in our vision and are openly supporting the work we are doing.&quot;</em><br />
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For more information on lessons taught at the Academy please call 01920 460646 or email <a href="mailto:academy@playsomething.co.uk">academy@playsomething.co.uk</a> <br />
<br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/coUH59GEsGw" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=119Santa's Sack Of Rockschool Goodieshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/a9FjMzlC-l4/newsarticle.aspx<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; text-align: center; "><img align="center" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=531" /> </p> <br />
The Christmas season is nearly upon us, the Rockschool offices will be closed from the 20th Dec to the 4th Jan 2012. To kick off the Christmas season early we thought we&#8217;d give you the chance to WIN some awesome <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/competitions/201112/" target="_self">Christmas gifts</a>. <br />
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<h4>The Prize</h4>This December we&#8217;re giving you the chance to WIN:&nbsp;<br />
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<li>The Hal Lenoard Recording Method:&nbsp;Complete Series Box Set&nbsp;</li>
<li>Progression Music Editing Software</li>
<li>A full set of Grade books in the instrument of your choosing</li></ul> <br />
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; text-align: left; "><em><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/competitions/201112/">Enter Now</a></em></p><em><br />
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Terms &amp; Conditions</em>
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<ol>
<li>Closing date for the competition is 5 January 2012 the winner will be contacted within 7 days of the closing date</li>
<li>Rockschool's decision is final</li>
<li>The prize is for 1 x Hal Leonard Recording Method, 1 x Progression software, 1 x set of Grade Books</li>
<li>A full set of grade books is defined as: Entry Level (Debut) to Grade 8 for Guitar, Bass and Drums. For Piano it is Grade 1 - 8 with no grade 7. For BBK it is Entry Level (Debut) - 5 with the BBK companion guide. Guitar and Drums both include the Hot Rock Series</li>
<li>This prize is not exchangeable for cash</li>
<li>Rockschool accepts no responsibility for any damage that may occur to the prize in transit</li>
<li>One entry per person</li>
<li>This competition is not open to Rockschool staff</li></ol><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/a9FjMzlC-l4" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=118Music Practitioners student, Misha B down to the last five in X Factor.http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/jMxIewBD6BQ/newsarticle.aspx<br />
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<img align="left" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=390" style="padding-right: 15px" />Misha B a Level 3 Music Practitioners vocal student from Trafford College, Manchester has progressed to the last 5 in the X Factor. The 19 year old is on her second year studying for the Extended Diploma on the Performing pathway, though with her prolonged absence from the college, she's probably got some catching up to do!<br />
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From everyone at Rockschool we wish her the best of luck.&nbsp;<br />
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<td><img align="right" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=529" style="padding-left:10px" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/jMxIewBD6BQ" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=116Music for Youth Schools Prom 2011http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/BwRLD9LBZHA/newsarticle.aspx<br />
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Hosted at the Royal Albert Hall over three nights with over 3,000 performers, the Music for Youth Schools Prom took the Albert Hall by storm. Check out some of the videos and pictures taken from this three night showcase of some of the hottest Rock, Pop and Urban talent from around the UK.&nbsp;<br />
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<img width="560" height="290" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=525" /> <br />
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<h2>'Play' Performed Live</h2>'Play' is an original piece written by composer Tim Steiner, commissioned by MFY and Rockschool for the 2011 season. The Schools Prom version of 'Play' acted as the overture to the concert, involving 800 young performers and featured MC Ryan Pearson. <br />
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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/okCRnjxs-8E" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
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<h2>Taneisha Jackson &amp; Stephanie Forbes</h2>Taneisha Jackson and Stephanie Forbes are a piano and voice&nbsp;duo&nbsp;based at Sedgehill School in Lewisham, London. Both greatly influenced by gospel and contemporary pop and R n' B, their songs and musical talent extend way beyond their age and experience. <br />
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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Foph35WQkAc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
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<h2>SDK</h2>SDK are an urban-pop group from Hustmere School in Sidcup, Kent. With the Schools Prom only being their third public appearance together, the Sidcup boys performed with bags of energy, swagger and confidence. <br />
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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/4NCrwAKyrK4" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/BwRLD9LBZHA" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=117Get 50% Off Teaching Diplomas in South Waleshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/rUnVGtHqz74/newsarticle.aspx<br />
<img title="AXMusic.co.uk" width="268" height="88" src="http://www.axmusic.co.uk/wp-content/themes/axmusic2011/images/axlogo.png" /><br />
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<strong>Get 50% Off Teaching Diplomas in South Wales</strong><br />
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AX Music in South Wales are offering candidates the chance to take the Rockschool Teaching Diploma at half price. If you are interested in taking the Teaching Diploma and are in the South Wales area please contact Phil Harris at phil@axmusic.co.uk. The deadline for registering is Friday 11th November. <br />
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For more information on AX Music please visit <a href="http://www.axmusic.co.uk">axmusic.co.uk</a><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/rUnVGtHqz74" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=11510 Year Old Ace Masters Drums, Guitar and Keyshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/aOKp1W7wuOU/newsarticle.aspx<img align="right" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=516" style="padding-right: 10px; padding-left: 10px" /> <br />
Benjamin Goh is an extraordinary case of young talent excelling in numerous different instruments. With the Rockschool syllabus at the heart of his learning, Benjamin already has Merit at Grade 6, and Grade 3 on Drums and Guitar respectively.<br />
<h4>His Story</h4>During the school holidays in 2009, Benjamin Goh and his older brother, Reuben, were taken to a couple of half hour drum lessons by their parents just to fill in the time. Both boys instantly fell in love with the instrument and decided they wanted to continue throughout the school term.<br />
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In 2010, Benjamin enrolled for his first Rockschool Drums exam. His Drum teacher, Neil Stewart , was confident that he could take the Grade 5 exam with his older brother. Benjamin hit the ground running and received a Merit at Grade 5 and his brother a Distinction. With the confidence of now knowing his skill level, Benjamin and his brother both performed in the annual 2 hour school music festival with 6 participating schools in August 2011. Benjamin however did not stop there...<br />
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After the success of his Grade 5 exam he also took a shine to the Guitar, Ukelele, Keyboad, Piano and even sings with his school performance groups and rock band.&nbsp;Benjamin was awarded a Music trophy for excellence by his school at the end of 2010 and received Merits in his recent Rockschool Grade 6 Drums exam and Guitar Grade 3 exam.&nbsp;<br />
<h4>Influential Teaching</h4>Behind every great student, there's a great teacher. Benjamin is very fortunate to have the most wonderful music teachers, Michelle Sadgrove and Matt Moncur who teach at his school (Arahoe Primary school, NZ). Michelle, in particular encourages Benjamin in all aspects of music and inspires all the kids at school. <br />
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Both Reuben &amp; Ben get no more than 15 minutes practice a few times a week and really have to make the most of these times. Eventually the boys hope to be able to persuade their parents to build them a music room/studio and intend to carry on their Grades with Rockschool.&nbsp;<br />
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If you've got a story you'd like to send in about yourself or student, please send it to <a href=" mailto:brand@rockschool.co.uk">brand@rockschool.co.uk</a><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/aOKp1W7wuOU" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=113Perform In Music for Youth's Regional Festival Serieshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/K6OPjTgUMh8/newsarticle.aspx<table width="30%">
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<td><a href="http://www.musicforyouth.org.uk"><img title="Music For Youth" align="left" width="89" height="60" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=372" style="padding-above: 4px" /></a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.accesstomusic.co.uk"><img title="Access To Music" align="left" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=514" style="padding-left: 10px" /></a></td></tr></tbody></table><br />
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In Collaboration with <a href="http://www.musicforyouth.org.uk" target="_blank">Music For Youth</a>&nbsp;and <a href="http://www.accesstomusic.co.uk" target="_blank">Access To Music</a>&nbsp;we are offering bands, and solo artists from Rockschool centres across the country the oppportunity to play at one of Music for Youths regional Rock, Pop and Urban Festivals. Selected bands will be invited to perform at MFY&#8217;s National Festival in Birmingham and London&#8217;s Royal Albert Hall. It&#8217;s free to take part and open to all groups of two or more, aged 21 and under. <br />
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The Shows will take place at the following venues on these dates; <br />
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<strong>Friday 25th February: </strong><a href="http://www.egglescliffe.org.uk" target="_blank">Stockton on Tees, Egglescliffe School</a><br />
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<strong>Saturday 3rd March:</strong>&nbsp;Bristol (Venue TBC) <br />
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<strong>Saturday 17th March:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ueaticketbookings.co.uk/venues/the-waterfront.aspx" target="_blank">Norwich Waterfront </a><br />
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<strong>Friday 23rd March:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="http://www.tauntons.ac.uk" target="_self">Southampton Tauntons College</a> <br />
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<strong>Saturday 24th March:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="http://joomla.sbc.ac.uk" target="_blank">South Birmingham College</a> <br />
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<strong>Date TBC:</strong> <a href="http://www.bushhallmusic.co.uk" target="_blank">London Bush Hall&nbsp;</a><br />
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The deadline for entries is mid <strong>December.&nbsp;</strong>Please send any entries or enquiries to <a href="mailto:patrick@rockschool.co.uk">patrick@rockschool.co.uk</a><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/K6OPjTgUMh8" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=109MP Presses Education Secretary For Pianos In Schoolshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/rNu6LaG7TOM/newsarticle.aspx<br />
An MP has questioned the education secretary Michael Gove over the government&#8217;s plans to improve music education in schools.<br />
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Valerie Vaz, the Labour MP for Walsall South, asked Mr Gove at Commons education questions for the government to boost music by at least providing a piano in every school.<br />
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<img align="right" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=512" style="padding-left: 10px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-above: 10px" />Citing Plato&#8217;s theory of education that musical training is one of the most important instruments in education, she highlighted the recent research from the Institute of Education which found that one in nine primary schools in the UK does not have a piano.<br />
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<em>&#8220;So could he ensure that he takes steps to ensure that all the primary schools have a musical co-ordinator and, more importantly, a piano?,&#8221;</em> she asked of Mr Gove.<br />
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He replied that a national plan for the future of music education in schools will be published by the government <em>&quot;shortly&quot;</em>, promising that it will <em>&quot;reform the delivery and funding of music education&quot;</em> and will give more children in the UK the opportunity to learn to play an instrument, to sing and to take part in an ensemble.<br />
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Earlier this month, the Institute of Education report revealed a wide gap in music education in schools, with some delivering a good programme and others very little. Its survey showed that more than a quarter of schools had no access to tuned percussion instruments and 45 per cent of primary staff could not read music.<br />
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Many of the teachers questioned said the main reason for poor music education was down to the need to prepare children for national tests in literacy and numeracy.<br />
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Mr Gove heeded the call in the Commons, saying that Ms Vaz is <em>&#8220;absolutely right that the wider provision not just of trained music teachers, but also of musical instruments, will ensure not just that more children have access to the greatest of all art forms, but also that more children as a result do better in every other subject as well&#8221;.</em><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/rNu6LaG7TOM" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=112Music Teacher Magazine: Teachers Guide To Music And Dyslexiahttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/pYpzXz2pi7s/newsarticle.aspxWe appeared in Music Teacher Magazine's teachers guide to music and dyslexia, if you didn't catch it here is our section from the article.&nbsp;<br />
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<a href="http://www.rhinegold.co.uk/downloads/magazines/music_teacher/music_teacher_guide_music_and_dyslexia.pdf"><img title="Read the full article" width="110" height="149" align="right" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=506" style="padding-left: 12px" /></a>At Rockschool we pride ourselves on offering practical, flexible and fun music qualifications. We know that exams can be daunting and stressful, which is why our examiners are trained to try and put candidates at ease as much as possible; we want to you to do well and have fun! Any candidate who has a learning difficulty, disability or is at a disadvantage due to something beyond their control should read our 'Reasonable Adjustment and Special Consideration <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/generalinformation/policies/" target="_blank">Policy</a>'.&nbsp;<br />
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We advise that when filling out an entry form, (for all our qualifications), candidates supply us with as much information as possible so that we can accommodate individual requirements to the best of our abilities. Call us to discuss your requirements: 0845 460 4747. <br />
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Graded Music Exams</h4> Upon providing evidence on your entry form, dyslexic candidates are given an extra five minutes to complete the exam; for Grades 6 &#8211; 8 candidates receive an extra ten minutes. This is automatically added when the exam is booked. If a dyslexic candidate requires further adjustments other than more time, this will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
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Top Exam tips For Dyslexic Candidates</h4>
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<li><strong>Talk to us &#8211;</strong> Talk to a member of the team about your individual requirements <a href="exams@rockschool.co.uk">exams@rockschool.co.uk</a> or if you want to talk to other candidates, find us on Facebook. </li>
<li><strong>Give yourself time &#8211;</strong> Get to the exam early, don&#8217;t put extra pressure on yourself by rushing.</li>
<li><strong>Be prepared &#8211;</strong> Don&#8217;t forget to bring your grade book, spare strings, sticks, etc. </li>
<li><strong>Keep hydrated &#8211;</strong> Bring a bottle of water with you, it will help you keep focused. </li>
<li> <strong>Enjoy it! &#8211;</strong> Rockschool Graded Music Exams are all about performance: play your music </li>your way and enjoy it. </ul>
<h4>Teaching And Performance Diplomas</h4> Dyslexic candidates should include a letter with their entry form providing evidence of their dyslexia and include their individual requirements for the examination element of the qualification. All requests will be considered on a case by case basis.
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Music Practitioner, Creative Practitioner And Music Educator Qualifications</h4>Our Vocational Qualifications are delivered by individual centres; learners need to enrol with a centre that delivers the qualification they want to take. Vocational Qualifications are coursework based and don&#8217;t involve exams. Learners can produce video and audio evidence instead of or alongside written work. Dyslexic learners should talk to the centre about their specific requirements and work with their tutor to produce evidence that works to their strengths. <br />
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Centres that require advice or deadline extensions should contact:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:qualifications@rockschool.co.uk">qualifications@rockschool.co.uk</a><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/pYpzXz2pi7s" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=111Guitar Idol 2011http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/fRk6BVh2V_4/newsarticle.aspx<br />
<a href="http://www.licklibrary.com/live/"><img align="right" title="View Event" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=451" style="padding-left: 15px" /></a> On December 4th 2011 at one of London&#8217;s top venues &#8211; The <a href="http://venues.meanfiddler.com/the-garage/home">Garage,</a> Islington will be the site for a six string battle for supremacy, with contestants flying in from all over the world to do battle for the title of Guitar Idol 2011. <br />
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The live final is the headline event for the first <a href="http://www.licklibrary.com/live/">'Licklibrary Live' show</a>: an all-day guitar festival (12.30-10.30 p.m.) which will also feature live performances, clinics and master-classes from some of the top names in guitar playing, as well as the chance for budding guitar stars to jam onstage with top Licklibrary stars:<br />
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Stuart Bull</a>, <a href="http://www.licklibrary.com/contributors/andy-james" target="_blank">Andy James</a>, <a href="http://www.dannygill.com/" target="_blank">Danny Gill</a>, <a href="http://www.licklibrary.com/contributors/mike-casswell" target="_self">Michael Caswell</a> and <a href="http://www.licklibrary.com/contributors/jamie-humphries" target="_blank">Jamie Humphries</a>. <br />
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This is a great opportunity for all Rockschool students and musicians alike so see some of the best guitarists in the world battle it out live on stage.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/fRk6BVh2V_4" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=108Level 4 & 6 Diploma Help Raise The Bar In South Wales.http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/Hq718XXhffk/newsarticle.aspx<a href="http://www.axmusic.co.uk" target="_self"><img title="AXMusic.co.uk" width="268" height="88" src="http://www.axmusic.co.uk/wp-content/themes/axmusic2011/images/axlogo.png" /></a><a href="http://www.axmusic.co.uk" target="_self"><br />
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<strong>The Level 4 and 6 Licentiate Diploma in Music Teaching has seen tremendous success over the years and no more so than at The Academy of Excellence in Music in Aberdare, South Wales.</strong>&nbsp;<br />
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When the Rockschool Teaching Diplomas were released in 2008 AX Music was beginning its journey as a community based educational organisation. <br />
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Jeremy Ward, Executive Director recommended that the staff of AX Music should undertake the Licentiate Level Six examination to bring quality assurance to the company. After a lot of hard work developing lesson plans, assessing performances and researching special needs education three AX Music personnel successfully completed the Licentiate. <br />
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In 2010 AX Music became the first educational establishment in Wales to run the Rockschool Diplomas. Staff from music services in the Cardiff area and freelance musicians enrolled on the Level Four Diploma course. Eleven candidates were successful and recently one candidate passed the Licentiate examination. <br />
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AX Music has helped further the career of these individuals by recommending them to county music services, private music establishments and community projects safe in the knowledge that quality will be maintained across the board because of the work they have undertaken on the diploma course. <br />
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The AX Music Diploma course takes place for two hours per week throughout the academic year. This enables candidates to keep working and teaching without making a dent in their earning potential. The course covers all aspects of the Diploma.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/Hq718XXhffk" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=103Ten Year Old Receives Distinction at Grade 4http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/lWVr6yXlmH8/newsarticle.aspx<br />
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<img align="left" width="100" height="130" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=444" style="padding-right: 7px" />Its not everyday that your average 10 year old recieves a distinction at Grade 4 but that's exactly what Bridie has achieved. Bridie is only ten years old, and has been learning for 3 years now. She's worked all the way through to Grade 4 so far, gaining merits in Grades 1, 2 &amp; 3 and getting a distinction at Grade 4. <br />
<h4>Background</h4>Bridie was given her first kit by a family friend who saw she had a real passion and feel for it! Her drumming idols include, Taylor Hawkins and Thomas Lang having already met clinic legend Karl Brasil, a fellow left handed player (Below Right). &nbsp;<br />
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Her practice schedule already&nbsp;mirrors&nbsp;that of a young professional, consisting of between 30 mins to an hour everyday during the week and 2 hours at a go on weekends.&nbsp;Her tutor Geoff Tonkin who studied at Drum Tech in West London has helped shape and mould her playing style.&nbsp;<br />
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Favourite pieces from her Grade 4 exam include punk/pop classic 'Cherry Bomb', followed shortly by the slightly darker 'Folded' and 'Baked Potarto'.&nbsp;More recently she's just started to play with other&nbsp;musicians, at a local regular jam night, which is teaching her things her tutor and exams cannot, and as a result her confidence is growing and is developing a real love for performing live.&nbsp;<br />
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Bridie eventually hopes to have her very own custom DW kit and work her way all the way up to Grade 8. From everyone here at Rockschool we wish her the best of luck!<br />
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If you've got a story you'd like to send in about yourself or student, please send it to <a href=" mailto:brand@rockschool.co.uk">brand@rockschool.co.uk</a><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/lWVr6yXlmH8" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=107Craig Blundell Hot Rock Drums Tourhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/q6qQ8ES3nqc/newsarticle.aspx<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.craigblundell.net/"><img align="left" title="Craig Blundell" src="/image.ashx?F=442" style="padding-right: 10px" /></a>Renowned clinician and educator <a href="http://www.craigblundell.net/" target="_blank">Craig Blundell</a> will be presenting three intimate Hot Rock Drums clinics in association with Music Sales &amp; Roland,&nbsp;this November. <br />
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During the workshops, Craig will be demonstrating how to play the exam versions of Hot Rock Drums Grades 4 and 5 using the Roland TD-4 and TD-9 electric kits, as well as the HD1 kit, Octapad and Handsonic.<br />
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There will also be special offers on <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/Flashsale.aspx?offer=109" target="_blank">Hot Rock Books</a> in all stores on the day of the demonstrations, plus a competition to win a <a href="http://www.roland.co.uk/products/productdetails.aspx?p=890&c=60" target="_self">HD1 kit</a> and a full set of Grade and Hot Rock books!<br />
<br />
<br />
<h4>Hot Rock Drums</h4> The <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/Flashsale.aspx?offer=109" target="_self">Hot Rock Series</a> covers works from a wide variety of artists and bands, including Metallica, Foo Fighters, AC DC, Kings of Leon and many more. <br />
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<em>&quot;Hot Rock is a great way of playing hit tunes in our exams and this series for drums and guitar has been going great guns since 2009. &#8220;We are delighted to be teaming up with Roland and Music Sales for these clinics. Craig is a great drummer and we expect these events to be well attended.&quot;<br />
</em><strong><em>Simon Pitt, CEO.&nbsp;</em></strong><br />
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</p><iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/26148529" width="560" height="320" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen="" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
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The drum clinics will be held from 3pm to 7pm in the following Musicroom stores: <br />
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<a href="http://www.musicroom.com/bristol" target="_blank">Bristol</a>:</strong> Tuesday 8th November 2011 &#8211; Musicroom Bristol, 30 College Street, BS1 5TB<br />
<strong><a href="http://www.musicroom.com/lincoln" target="_blank">Lincoln</a>:</strong> Wednesday 9th November 2011 &#8211; Musicroom Lincoln, 161-162 High Street, LN5 7AF<br />
<strong><a href="http://www.musicroom.com/edinburgh" target="_blank">Edinburgh</a>:</strong> Thursday 10th November 2011 &#8211; Rae Macintosh, 8 Queensferry Street, EH2 4PA <br />
<br />
<br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/q6qQ8ES3nqc" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=106Guitar Techniques Issue 194http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/1yvxzmxChSk/newsarticle.aspx<br/><br/>
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<td>We have a monthly column in Guitar Techniques magazine. It offers advice on scale choices, soloing strategies and many other ways to expand your playing. All the resources you will need for Issue 194 can be found below.<br />
<br />
This month features Guitar Grade 7 piece, 'Deja Vu' -&nbsp;&nbsp;A Southern boogie style track typified by bands such as Lynyrd Skynyrd and ZZ Top.&nbsp;This song begins with a driving riff which should be played cleanly and loud, not forgetting the bends, slides and vibrato.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
If you think you'd like to sit the Guitar Grade 7 exam you&nbsp;will need the Guitar Grade 7 book, available from <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/ID_No/0385298/details.html" target="_self">musicroom.com</a><br />
</td>
<td style="padding-left: 20px"><a shape="rect" id="hypProgressionOne" href="http://www.musicradar.com/guitartechniques"><img title="Guitar Techniques Magazine" id="GuitarTechniquesIssue194" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=435" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; width: 130px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; height: 170px; border-left-width: 0px" /></a></td></tr></tbody></table>
<h4>Resources</h4>The resources you need for the Rockschool Guitar Techniques feature (194 Issue) can be found below:<br />
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<td class="Icon"><img class="AdobeReader" id="imgAdobeReaderIcon" alt="Adobe Reader Icon" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/IconAdobeReader.gif" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=436">Sheet Music - Guitar Grade 7- 'Deja Vu'</a></strong><br />
(216KB, 2 pages, .pdf)</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<td class="Icon"><img class="Zip" id="ZipIconGuitarGradeThree" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/IconZip.gif" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=438">'Deja Vu' Audio (Full &amp; Backing Track)</a></strong><br />
(10MB, .zip)</td></tr></tbody></table>
<h4><br />
<br />
Related Products</h4>
<p>You may find the following books useful for preparing for the Guitar Grade 7 exam:</p>
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<td style="width: 80%"><a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/ID_No/0385298/details.html" target="_self"><img id="imgRelatedProductOne" title="View Book" alt="Rockschool Guitar - Grade 6" src="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/resources/images/gradedmusicexams/bookcovers/guitar/gradeseven.png" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; width: 143px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; height: 196px; border-left-width: 0px" /></a><br />
<br />
<span class="BookCoverTitle">Rockschool Guitar<br />
Grade 7<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Bold">Price:</span> &#163;15.99<br />
<span class="Bold">Media:</span> Sheet Music &amp; CD<br />
<span class="Bold">Language:</span> English<br />
<a shape="rect" id="hypRelatedProductTwoLearnMore" href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/ID_No/0385298/details.html">Learn more...</a></td></tr>
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<td><a shape="rect" id="hypRelatedProductTwo" href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/ID_No/0705976/details.html"><img id="imgRelatedProductTwo" title="View Book" alt="Rockschool Guitar - Technical Companion" src="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/resources/images/gradedmusicexams/bookcovers/guitar/technicalcompanion.png" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; width: 143px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; height: 196px; border-left-width: 0px" /></a><br />
<br />
<span class="BookCoverTitle">Rockschool Guitar<br />
Technical Companion<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Bold">Price:</span> &#163;10.00<br />
<span class="Bold">Media:</span> Sheet Music<br />
<span class="Bold">Language:</span> English<br />
<a shape="rect" id="hypRelatedProductTwoLearnMore" href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/ID_No/0705976/details.html">Learn more...</a></td></tr>
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<td class="RelatedProductsFooter" colspan="2"><br />
</td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table>
<p></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/1yvxzmxChSk" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=104YouTube Top 5http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/Z9W4xgamZnk/newsarticle.aspxOver the past month we&#8217;ve been delving into the deepest, darkest reaches of YouTube to find our Top 5 Grade piece covers. There were some truly inspiring videos out there that we'd love to see more of. Here we are with our Top 5. Enjoy!<br />
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<h4>1. BBKeng: '667' Guitar Grade 8</h4> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RjVmQU7FMdg"><img title="Click to play" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=423" /></a> <br />
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With nearly 100,000 views this excellent piece of metal riffage has been attracting attention on the web since 2007. BBKeng has his own website over at <a href="www.bbkeng.com" target="_self">www.bbkeng.com</a> check it out for more videos and lessons.<br />
<h4><br />
2. Paul Asbridge: &#8216;Some You Win&#8217; Drums Grade 8</h4> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qLC6wYiCEsE "><img title="Click to play" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=427" /></a> <br />
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This is an all-round solid piece of performance drumming played with flare, fantastic technique and a good sprinkling of raw energy. Paul also has a number of different clips on his channel as well as more Rockschool covers that are well worth a <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/PaulAsbridge" target="_self">watch</a>.
<h4><br />
3. Matt Lowie: 'Bust Up' Bass Grade 5</h4> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P83dMLtR19E"><img title="Click to play" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=426" /></a> <br />
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Not necessarily one of the flashiest bass pieces in the syllabus but never the less, a fantastic demonstration of how bass should be played. Matt currently teaches bass in and around London you can find him over at <a href="www.mattlowriemusic.com" target="_self">www.mattlowriemusic.com </a>
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4. Dav0161: 'Alka Seltzer' Band Based Keys Grade 5</h4> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4b1gUYg57LE "><img title="Click to play" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=424" /></a> <br />
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Taken from the Band Based Keys syllabus this is a rarity that we found when searching through the depths of YouTube. Again this isn&#8217;t a perfectionist&#8217;s choice but still, the energy and stylistic awareness of the track really impressed us and is well worth your attention.
<h4><br />
5. Craig: 'Georges Best' Guitar Grade 7</h4><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FNHw4_ZqW_M"><img title="Click to play" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=425" /></a><br />
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'Georges Best' is a great guitar piece but rarely chosen by Rockschool students. Played with the smoothness of B.B King this is a great little cover that ticks all the boxes. Guitarists thinking about taking <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/gradedmusicexams/guitar/gradeseven.aspx" target="_blank">Grade 7</a> should take this piece into consideration when selecting their performance pieces. 'Georges Best' is great for developing and varying your technique as well as perfecting your timing.&nbsp;<br />
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<h4>Send Us Your Video</h4>If you've got a video that you think is worth our attention please send us the link to <a href="mailto:brand@rockschool.co.uk">brand@rockschool.co.uk</a> - we'd love to hear from you!&nbsp;<br />
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<strong>*&nbsp;</strong>Please note, none of the artists, performances or websites are endorsed by Rockschool and are merely the editors choice. None of the videos should be taken as learning tools to use alongside our Graded material.&nbsp;<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/Z9W4xgamZnk" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=38How To Play: 'All My Life' - Foo Fightershttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/qKV6iPJPJVU/newsarticle.aspx<h3>'All My Life' - Foo Fighters: Hot Rock Drums Grade 4</h3><a shape="rect" href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/ID_No/01012447/details.html"><img align="left" title="Find out more" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=299" complete="complete" style="width: 130px; padding-right: 15px; height: 165px" /></a><strong>Track:</strong>&nbsp;'All My Life'<br />
<strong>Tempo:</strong>&nbsp;168 bpm<br />
<strong>Album:</strong> One By One<br />
<strong>Drummer:</strong> Taylor Hawkins<br />
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<strong>All My Life - Exam Version<br />
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<h3>Background:</h3>Taylor begun his career as a session drummer for Alanis Morissette and&nbsp;later became the drummer of the Foo Fighters after his cousin, Kevin Harrell,&nbsp;introduced him to Dave Grohl after camping with him for several weeks in the Ozarks. A self confessed Queen fan, Taylor also had a brief stint touring as Brian May's drummer.&nbsp;<br />
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Today we'll be looking at the exam version of Foo Fighters hit song 'All My Life'. 'All My Life' is great piece to learn and one of our favourites to play from Hot Rock Drums Grade 4. &nbsp;It&#8217;s got every drum part you&#8217;d want in a classic rock track, contrasting dynamics, fast tempo, killer fills &#8211; the list goes on. Today we&#8217;ll show you how to nail two of the best parts of this thumping rock track.<br />
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First off lets get you familiar with the drum notation you'll need to know to work through the exercises. <br />
<h4>Drum Notation Explained</h4><img align="left" title="Drum Notation" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=306" complete="complete" style="width: 367px; height: 87px" />
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<h3>Style Points</h3>The track is best played full-on with lots of energy and power, make each snare hit count as you&#8217;ll be the driving force behind the track. Remember, accuracy, feel and dynamics will play a big part in how the sound of this track comes across &#8211; Try listening to the track at least a couple of times through before attempting it.
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<h3><br />
'Machine Gun' Snare Fill - Bar 8</h3><iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/28058998?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" width="300" height="60" frameborder="0"></iframe><br />
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This &#8216;machine gun&#8217; like fill on the snare repeats throughout the track, but let&#8217;s have a look at its first instance - the lead into the verse. The fill itself is an extremely effective and punchy way of separating and distinguishing between the two sections, and played right can sound HUGE. Again take your time with this part, as the accuracy of each hit is paramount. <br />
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Take a look at the below to see where it appears in the track.&nbsp;<br />
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Bars 3-8</h4><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=428"><img align="left" title="Bars 3-8" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=428" complete="complete" style="width: 705px; padding-right: 10px; height: 223px" /></a>
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The Way To Play</h4>To get this section nailed brings you back to one of the classic rudiments in drumming [<strong>1 +a2e a</strong>], a six figure pattern (shown below) that used&nbsp;effectively&nbsp;can really go along way. The figure itself [<strong>3 +a4e a </strong>] is a slight variation of this being placed on beat 3 instead of 1. The easiest way to play the fill is to use the below sticking <strong>R L R L R</strong> - but can be played with doubles if you're feeling adventurous <strong>(RR LL R)</strong>.<br />
<h4>Snare Exercise<br />
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<td><img align="left" title="Snare exercise" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=301" complete="complete" style="width: 212px; padding-right: 10px; height: 137px" /></td>
<td><strong>Tip:</strong>&nbsp;The fill's placement across the bar can seem daunting at first - Slow the exercise down as much as possible and break the fill in half if you have to.&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
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Try looping the above figure until you can play it at the track tempo. Start off at say half the tempo this will give you plenty of&nbsp;leeway&nbsp;when improving your stick accuracy. If you're feeling creative try moving the fill around the kit - the&nbsp;possibilities&nbsp;really are endless. Try placing the +a on the High Tom and the 2e a on the Floor Tom and you'll have a completely different sounding fill.&nbsp;<br />
<h3><br />
Chorus Ride Pattern - Bars 27 Onwards</h3><iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/28060352?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" width="300" height="60" frameborder="0"></iframe><br />
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Throughout the chorus Taylor plays an intricate ride bell pattern that really allows the chorus to groove. This pattern again plays with syncopation (like in the intro) which we&#8217;ve simplified for you in the exam version to match the Grade requirements. The figure itself is actually quite easy to master but plays a massive part in the feel of the chorus, it goes like this 1 2 [3+<span style="color: #cccccc">(4)</span>+1]. see exercise 2 for the full pattern. &nbsp;<br />
<h4><br />
Bars 25-32</h4><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=429"><img align="left" title="Bars 3-8" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=429" complete="complete" style="width: 705px; padding-right: 10px; height: 223px" /></a>
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The Way To Play</h4>Practice playing Exercise 1 (below) on the bell of the ride at first, then take out the hit on beat 4 (Exercise 2) and&nbsp;voil&#224;&nbsp;you&#8217;ve got the basis of the pattern! Loop exercise 2 to a click and slowly build the tempo keeping each hit accurate and in time. Once you've mastered this the rest of the chorus will follow. <br />
<h4><br />
Exercise 1</h4>
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<td><img title="Exercise 1" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=286" complete="complete" align?left?="" style="width: 315px; padding-right: 10px; height: 107px" /><i><br />
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<td><strong>Step 1:</strong> Practice playing this exercise first to familiarise yourself with the placement of the pattern.</td></tr></tbody></table>
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Exercise 2</h4>
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<td><img title="Exercise 2" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=287" complete="complete" align?left?="" style="width: 315px; padding-right: 10px; height: 107px" /><i><br />
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<td><strong>Step 2:</strong> Once Exercise 1 is mastered take out the hit on beat 4. Remember to use the 'shoulder' of the stick when playing the bell of the ride - this will give a clear and consistent sound.&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
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Again, Exercise 2 can also be applied to many different styles; Try moving beats 3 onwards around the kit and see what you come up with! Use the below exercise when your practising at home or with your band.&nbsp;<br />
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Exercise 3</h4>
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<td><img title="Exercise 3" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=308" complete="complete" align?left?="" style="width: 315px; padding-right: 10px; height: 107px" /><i><br />
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<td><strong>Ex.3</strong>&nbsp;Try moving the pattern around the kit, place the 3+ on the High Tom and the +1 on the floor tom. This really is a great chance to be creative! &nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
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<h3>Hot Rock Drums Grade 4</h3>If you want to play the track in full you&#8217;ll have to purchase the Hot Rock Drums&nbsp;<a shape="rect" href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/ID_No/01012447/details.html" target="_blank">Grade 4 book</a>, where you can find the full transcription &amp; exam version of the track as well as further Hints, Tips and walkthroughs to help you on the way to achieving a great sound. <br />
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The Hot Rock Grade 4 book also features 7 more <strong>HUGE</strong> tracks:
<ul>
<li><strong>Californication</strong> &#8211; Red Hot Chili Peppers</li>
<li><strong>Fuel</strong> &#8211; Metallica. </li>
<li><strong>Live And Let Die</strong> &#8211; Guns 'n' Roses </li>
<li><strong>Message In A Bottle</strong> &#8211; The Police. </li>
<li><strong>Paranoid</strong> &#8211; Black Sabbath. </li>
<li><strong>Sex On Fire</strong> &#8211; Kings Of Leon. </li>
<li><strong>Whole Lotta Rosie</strong> &#8211; AC/ DC.</li></ul><strong><a shape="rect" href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/ID_No/01012447/details.html" target="_self" style="margin-left: 20px">Find Out More</a></strong><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/qKV6iPJPJVU" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=80Band Based Keys - FAQ'shttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/4kpf77mvm00/newsarticle.aspx<br />
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<a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/gradedmusicexams/bandbasedkeys"><img align="left" title="More Info" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=392" style="width: 136px; padding-right: 10px; height: 96px" /></a></td>
<td><a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/shop/bandbasedkeys/"><img align="left" title="Band Based Keys Books" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=422" style="width: 220px; padding-left: 10px; height: 113px" /></a><br />
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Here are some of the most Frequently Asked Questions we get about the Band Based Keys syllabus. Take a quick look through them before sending us an&nbsp;email. If you still can't find what your after, email us: <a href="mailtoinfo@rockschool.co.uk">info@rockschool.co.uk</a><br />
<h3>FAQ's</h3>
<h4>Q: Do I need to be in a band to enter the exam?</h4>A: No you don't have to be in a band to enter the exam. The Grade book comes with a backing track to play along with. With the Band Based Keys syllabus however, you can play in a band at grades 3 and 5 as the syllabus is the same as Guitar, Bass &amp; Drums. View our <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/gradedmusicexams/bandexams/" target="_blank">band exams</a>.&nbsp;<br />
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<h4>Q: What kind of keyboard do I need to sit the exam?</h4>A: All the pieces are designed for a standard 66 note keyboard. You will need the following patches: piano; electric piano, organ, strings and synth. There are usually numerous examples of each and you are free to make your own choices on which to use.&nbsp;<br />
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<h4>Q: Why do the BBK exams stop at Grade 5? What should I do if I want to progress further on Keys?</h4>A: We decided to bring out the lower levels first. The other grades will be out next year. If you'd like to progress further than Grade 5 we'd suggest switching to the <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/gradedmusicexams/piano/" target="_self">Pop Piano</a> syllabus for now. <br />
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<h4>Q: How does the BBK syllabus differ from your Piano syllabus?</h4>A: The BBK syllabus differs in the sense that playing keys is not about just playing solo melodies and left hand accompaniment. It's about learning to play chords and forming part of the texture of a band. There are solos in the pieces but with this exam you learn to be a member of a band and not always the lead player.<br />
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<h4>Q: What kind of repertoire is covered in the syllabus?</h4>A: The main styles are rock, pop and funk but there are numerous different styles covered in the&nbsp;repertoire.&nbsp;<br />
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<h4>Q: Can I bring my own keyboard to the exam?</h4>A: It&#8217;s always best to use your own keyboard. You will feel more confident playing on an instrument you know. Just remember to have all the parts ready and to get set up as quickly as possible. Don&#8217;t forget the sustain pedal if you are using one.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/4kpf77mvm00" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=99Musicians Call For Wider EBacc Subject Listhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/RXTwx-PgkoY/newsarticle.aspx<a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/education-14542826" target="_self"><em>Katherine Sellgren</em> - BBC</a><br />
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<strong>Musicians are urging the government to include creative and cultural subjects in its English Baccalaureate measure.</strong><br />
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The benchmark is reached by pupils in England who get at least a C in maths, English, two sciences, a language and history or geography at GCSE.The Incorporated Society of Musicians and Music Teacher magazine say it should include a <em>&quot;sixth pillar&quot;</em> for a cultural or creative option like music.The Department for Education said it ensured <em>&quot;core&quot;</em> subjects were studied.<br />
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The ISM and Music Teacher magazine are calling on the public to help with the campaign to get music included in the EBacc, as the benchmark is known, by writing to their MP.A template letter, provided by the groups, says: <em>&quot;I am deeply concerned at the current omission of music and other creative subjects from the English Baccalaureate.&quot;</em><br />
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'Enriching' subject</h4>It refers to a report by the Commons education select committee, published in July, which urged ministers to review the EBacc subject list because it risked 'shoe-horning' pupils into inappropriate subjects.<br />
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<strong><em>&quot;The EBacc is there to make sure that every single child gets a chance to study the core academic subjects which top universities demand&quot;</em></strong> - Department for Education<br />
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<em>&quot;Will you, as my MP, support the recent education select committee's report which called on the government to review its initial subject choice for the English Baccalaureate?</em> the letter says. It goes on: <em>&quot;And will you join calls for music to be included as part of a sixth 'pillar' of creative and cultural subject options, to address the omission of music and other creative subjects?<br />
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<em>&quot;If we do not protect music, we will put our musical heritage, industry, and the academic and social benefits of music education at risk.</em>&quot; Deborah Annetts, chief executive of the ISM, said: <em>&quot;Not only is music challenging and enriching as a subject in schools, but to forget music at GCSE level is to forget the creative, social, academic, economic, emotional and intellectual benefits of an excellent music education.This is to say nothing of its own unique musical value.&quot;</em><br />
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Christopher Walters, editor of Music Teacher magazine, said: <em>&quot;Essentially a performance measure, the EBacc will inevitably have negative consequences for any subjects that are excluded from it.&quot;</em><br />
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'Reforming the system'</h4><em>&quot;Music Teacher is therefore delighted to be part of a campaign not only to include music but to introduce an entire sixth pillar of creative subjects, which we believe would greatly improve the impact of the EBacc in our schools.&quot;</em><br />
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A Department for Education spokesman said: <em>&quot;The EBacc is there to make sure that every single child gets a chance to study the core academic subjects which top universities demand. But the EBacc is not the be all and end all.</em><br />
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<em>&quot;The White Paper made clear that this is 'only one measure of performance and should not be the limit of schools' ambitions for their pupils'.</em><br />
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<em>&quot;We've protected &#163;82.5m funding for music services this year and are reforming the system so money is targeted where it is needed most in the future.&quot;</em><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/RXTwx-PgkoY" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=101Mr Jam Centre For Modern Music Graduation Ceremony 2011http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/QHl0Y-EpmJY/newsarticle.aspx<a href="http://mrjam.com/"><img align="left" title="Mr. Jam.com" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=410" width="110" height="30" style="padding-right:10px;" /></a><br />
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With more and more Rockschool centres popping up over Europe every year, we thought we'd show everyone in the UK how its done in Spain. &nbsp;The Mr Jam Centre for Modern Music is the Official Rockschool exam centre in the Basque region of Northern Spain. Boasting 29 distinctions and&nbsp;41 merits for this&nbsp;session alone it's one of Rockschool's highest performing centres in Spain. <br />
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Mr. Jam celebrated its first awards ceremony for all the Rockschool students who achieved Grade 8 in Drums, Guitar and Bass in June 2011. This ceremony was part of the centres 20th anniversary.&nbsp;
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<table width:100%="" align="center">
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<td><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=398"><img align="centre" title="Click to view larger image" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=398" style="width: 136px; padding-right: 15px; height: 166px" /></a><br />
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<strong>Ivan Bernal</strong>&nbsp;<br />
Grade 8 Drums<br />
Distinction</td>
<td><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=401"><img align="centre" title="Click to view larger image" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=401" style="width: 136px; padding-right: 15px; height: 166px" /></a><br />
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<strong>Xabier&nbsp;Lezana</strong><br />
Grade 8 Guitar<br />
Merit</td>
<td><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=405"><img align="centre" title="Click to view larger image" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=405" style="width: 136px; padding-right: 15px; height: 166px" /></a><br />
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<strong>Jokin Bilbao</strong><br />
Grade 8 Drums<br />
Merit</td>
<td><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=402"><img align="centre" title="Click to view larger image" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=402" style="width: 246px; height: 166px" /></a><br />
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<strong>Unai Verela</strong><br />
Grade 8 Drums<br />
Merit</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
The Mr. Jam centre achieved some fantastic results this session, below are all their Grade 8 results for this session.&nbsp;With these grades the students can put the UCAS points towards applications for a range of Universities here in the UK, such as: BIMM, IMCP, University of Sussex, University of West London, University of Westminster, Bath Spa University, Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts, The Northern College of Music &amp; The Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama.&nbsp;<br />
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<table class="GridView">
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<tr><th class="LeftTop">Candidate</th><th class="Center">Qualification</th><th class="RightTop">Result</th></tr>
<tr class="Dark">
<td class="LeftLeft" style="width: 20%">Gonzalo Garcia Plasencia</td>
<td style="width: 20%">Drums Grade 8<img align="left" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=397" complete="complete" 3?="" style="width: 15px; padding-right: 5px; height: 15px" /></td>
<td class="CenterRight" style="width: 20%">Merit</td></tr>
<tr>
<td class="LeftLeft">Andoni Narbaez Lizarralde</td>
<td>Guitar Grade 8<img align="left" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=397" complete="complete" 3?="" style="width: 15px; padding-right: 5px; height: 15px" /></td>
<td class="CenterRight">Merit</td></tr>
<tr class="Dark">
<td class="LeftLeft" style="width: 20%">Unai Olabarri Varela</td>
<td style="width: 20%">Drums Grade 8<img align="left" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=397" complete="complete" 3?="" style="width: 15px; padding-right: 5px; height: 15px" /></td>
<td class="CenterRight" style="width: 20%">Merit</td></tr>
<tr>
<td class="LeftLeft">Jairo Ubia&#241;o Martinez</td>
<td>Drums Grade 8<img align="left" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=397" complete="complete" 3?="" style="width: 15px; padding-right: 5px; height: 15px" /></td>
<td class="CenterRight">Merit</td></tr>
<tr class="Dark">
<td class="LeftLeft" style="width: 20%">Ivan Roman Bernal</td>
<td style="width: 20%">Drums Grade 8<img align="left" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=397" complete="complete" 3?="" style="width: 15px; padding-right: 5px; height: 15px" /></td>
<td class="CenterRight" style="width: 20%">Distinction</td></tr>
<tr>
<td class="LeftLeft">Jorge Fernandez Fernandez</td>
<td>Drums Grade 8<img align="left" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=397" complete="complete" 3?="" style="width: 15px; padding-right: 5px; height: 15px" /></td>
<td class="CenterRight">Distinction</td></tr>
<tr class="Dark">
<td class="LeftLeft" style="width: 20%">Jokin Arnal Bilbao</td>
<td style="width: 20%">Bass Grade 8<img align="left" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=397" complete="complete" 3?="" style="width: 15px; padding-right: 5px; height: 15px" /></td>
<td class="CenterRight" style="width: 20%">Merit</td></tr>
<tr>
<td class="LeftLeft">Pablo Garcia Fernandez</td>
<td>Guitar Grade 8<img align="left" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=397" complete="complete" 3?="" style="width: 15px; padding-right: 5px; height: 15px" /></td>
<td class="CenterRight">Merit</td></tr>
<tr class="Dark">
<td class="LeftLeft" style="width: 20%">Xabier Rabadan Lezana</td>
<td style="width: 20%">Guitar Grade 8<img align="left" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=397" complete="complete" 3?="" style="width: 15px; padding-right: 5px; height: 15px" /></td>
<td class="CenterRight" style="width: 20%">Merit</td></tr>
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</td></tr></tbody></table><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/QHl0Y-EpmJY" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=100Performance Diplomas – New & Updated. Now Without Quick Study Pieceshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/HraBltE1ois/newsarticle.aspxOur <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/diplomas/performancediploma/" target="_blank">Performance Diplomas</a> have been stripped down and refined to give you more musical freedom. Now without quick study pieces, the Performance Diploma focuses solely on your performance ability as a musician, so you can play your music, your way.&nbsp;
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<h4>Performance Diplomas</h4><br />
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<td><a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/diplomas/performancediploma/"><img align="left" title="More Info" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=284" style="width: 66px; padding-right: 10px; height: 70px" /></a></td>
<td>Rockschool Performance Diplomas are assessed on exactly what the title suggests. A performance. This qualification is perfect for those candidates who want to&nbsp;carry&nbsp;on and development&nbsp;their performance skills&nbsp;beyond Grade 8.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
There are three learning outcomes that you need to successfully complete:
<ul>
<li>A 20-30 minute performance (dependent on the level) </li>
<li>Evidence of promotional material</li>
<li>A&nbsp;Q&nbsp;&amp; A with the examiner</li></ul>These outcomes of the exam all link together and provide the fundamentals of the qualification.&nbsp;We offer the Performance Diploma at two levels:
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<li><a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/diplomas/performancediploma/levelfour.aspx" target="_blank">Level 4</a> is available to candidates aged 16 and over with a minimum of Grade 8 or equivalent in an accredited instrumental exam.<br />
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<li><a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/diplomas/performancediploma/levelsix.aspx" target="_blank">Level 6</a> is available to candidates aged 16 and over with an accredited Performance Diploma at Level 4. </li></ul><br />
For more information contact <a href="mailto:diplomas@rockschool.co.uk">diplomas@rockschool.co.uk</a><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/HraBltE1ois" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=96Music Practitioners Qualifications - Now With UCAS Pointshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/-SQ27bYrbJ0/newsarticle.aspx<br />
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<img align="left" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=390" style="width: 49px; padding-right: 10px; height: 54px" />We are proud to announce that our Music Practitioners Qualifications now carry&nbsp;UCAS points - see below for our points structure. *Find out how our points compare, visit the UCAS <a href="http://www.ucas.co.uk/students/ucas_tariff/tarifftables/" target="_blank">website</a>.<br />
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<tr><th class="LeftTop" style="width: 14%">Grade</th><th class="Center" style="width: 18%">Extended Diploma</th><th class="Center" style="width: 14%">Diploma</th><th class="Center" style="width: 18%">Subsidiary Diploma</th><th class="Center" style="width: 18%">Extended Certificate</th><th class="RightTop" style="width: 14%">Certificate</th></tr>
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<td class="LeftLeft">Distinction</td>
<td>240</td>
<td class="center">180</td>
<td class="center">120</td>
<td class="center">60</td>
<td class="centerRight">30</td></tr>
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<td class="LeftLeft">Merit</td>
<td>160</td>
<td class="center">120</td>
<td class="center">80</td>
<td class="center">40</td>
<td class="centerRight">20</td></tr>
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<td class="LeftLeft">Pass</td>
<td>80</td>
<td class="center">60</td>
<td class="center">40</td>
<td class="center">20</td>
<td class="centerRight">10</td></tr>
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<br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/-SQ27bYrbJ0" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=98Discount For Rockschool Students On New ATM Session Musician Coursehttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/g2MbwcdTAUM/newsarticle.aspx<br />
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<a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/myrockschool/administrator/marketing/contenteditors/newsarticles/"><img align="left" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=379" style="width: 60px; padding-right: 15px; height: 60px" /></a>Access to Music, has launched a new one-year Level 3 Session Musician course in Manchester accredited by&nbsp;a Rockschool&nbsp;Diploma. They are offering a 50% discount on the resources fee for Rockschool&nbsp;students worth &#163;45!*<br />
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The course starts in September in Manchester and is the perfect grounding for anyone looking to become a top-flight instrumentalist. It caters for the standard instruments found in rock and pop music (guitar, bass, drums, vocals and keyboards). Students undertake intensive instrumental development coupled with musicianship skills which leads to live and recorded performance in a plethora of different genres of music. Students also gain an understanding of how to work effectively in the music industry and will gain access to lots of opportunities in the region.<a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/myrockschool/administrator/marketing/contenteditors/newsarticles/"><img align="right" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=391" style="padding-bottom: 20px; padding-left: 20px; width: 149px; height: 99px; padding-top: 20px" /></a><br />
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Delivery is centred on music-making sessions in rehearsal rooms, studios and venues. The course is run from Access to Music Manchester based at the Abraham Moss Centre in Crumpsall, north Manchester, right on the Metro Link just 15 minutes from Piccadilly.<br />
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<a href="http://www.accesstomusic.co.uk" target="_self">To apply</a> you must be aged 16-24. You will need to be at a Grade 5 standard&nbsp;or above on your instrument and you will need the drive and motivation to complete the course. You will be invited to attend an interview/audition.<br />
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Progression from the course can lead onto Access to Music's Popular Music Practice (Session Musician) foundation degree at the Royal Northern College of Music.<br />
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To apply visit the Access To Music <a href="http://www.accesstomusic.co.uk" target="_blank">site</a><br />
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* Proof that you are a Rockschool student will be required.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/g2MbwcdTAUM" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=95Rock, Pop & Urban Showcase: Music For Youth National Festival - July 2011http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/UXEkRTCEJPw/newsarticle.aspx<br />
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<a href="http://www.mfy.org.uk/coreseason/national"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=372" align="left" title="MFY National Festival" style="width: 104px;height: 73px;padding-right:15px;" /></a>Music for Youth&#8217;s National Festival embodies the UK&#8217;s thriving youth music scene. Across the six days, over 12,000 young musicians from across the country took over the city of Birmingham, performing at some of the city&#8217;s premier venues. The festival included inspirational performances of jazz, orchestral, rock, folk and world, urban, wind and brass, pop, choral and chamber music.
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On Wednesday 6 July,&nbsp;19 aspiring rock, pop and urban groups from across the country took to the HMV Institute stage. The Rock, Pop and Urban day showcased some of the UK&#8217;s best up-and-coming bands, performing a range of both original material and covers. Each group received a Certificate of Participation based on their musicality, stylistic awareness and stage presence, as well as feedback from MFY&#8217;s Music Mentors, John Evans and Rob Farrer.&nbsp;<br />
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The following groups were presented with Certificates of Participation:<br />
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<strong>The Rebels of Rock</strong>, a four piece from Harwich, Essex (aged 8-11) received a&nbsp;Certificates of Participation for&nbsp;their stage energy, rock sound, and overall great performance.<br />
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<strong>Innovence,</strong> a four piece alternative/progressive band from Newport, Gwent (aged 17-19) received a Certificate of Participation for their anthemic rock performance and playing with complete professionalism. <br />
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<a href=""><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=376" align="right" title="" style="width: 115px;height: 170px;padding-left:15px;" /></a><strong>Soul Patrol</strong> (right) from Market Harborough, Leicestershire, a 19 piece soul band (aged 14-19) were presented with a Certificate of Participation for <em>&quot;really nailing the soul genre&quot;,</em> with an energetic and entertaining performance of original material. <br />
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Chief Executive of Rockschool, Dr Simon Pitt was on hand to&nbsp;award the Certificates as well as&nbsp;offer feedback and advice to the performers.&nbsp;<br />
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<em>&quot;There were some fantastic bands and artists on show today. It&#8217;s always great to be involved in an event like this, where students get the opportunity to perform their music on the big stage &#8211; this is something that&#8217;s been at the very core of Rockschool since day one.&quot; <strong>Dr. Simon Pitt.&nbsp;</strong></em><br />
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Any bands aged 21 and under, looking to get involved in the 2012 MFY Festival Series can enter online from September at <a href="https://www.mfy.org.uk" target="_blank">www.mfy.org.uk </a>
<div style="clear: both"></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/UXEkRTCEJPw" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=94Exams Team Interviewhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/i9kVlaAb59w/newsarticle.aspx<br />
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<td><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=276" align="left" title="James Richards" style="width: 115px;height: 130px;padding-right:15px;" /></td>
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<h4>James Richards</h4>
<ul>
<li><strong>Job Title:&nbsp;</strong>Exams Officer</li>
<li><strong>Area(s) covered:</strong> The North &amp; Scotland</li>
<li><strong>Education:</strong> Leicester University BA in Politics</li>
<li><strong>Musical Taste:</strong> The Who, The Beatles &amp; The Doors</li>
<li><strong>Instrument: </strong>Bass</li>
<li><strong>Band:</strong> DeadWax</li><strong> </strong></ul></td></tr></tbody></table><br />
<strong>Rockschool is in one of its busiest examination periods of the year; we caught up with one of our latest editions to the Rockschool exams team, James Richards to give you a behind the scenes look at how we operate.</strong>
<h3> The Background</h3>
<h4> <br />
How long have you been playing bass and does it help when answering questions on the syllabus?<br />
</h4>I've been playing for around 10 years now. It's great to be knowledgeable about bass when you're working at somewhere like Rockschool. I know the syllabus inside out now and can really empathise with the candidates and the process they go through when learning an instrument. It does mean however, that a lot of the bass related questions get fielded towards me! <br />
<h4><br />
What's your job role, what does it involve?<br />
</h4>The role requires both great organisation and data management skills. We organise all the exam dates with the centre and examiner, we process and print all the certificates and we also source new centres. All in all we have to manage our time effectively to ensure all our candidates and examiners are happy.<br />
<h4><br />
How many members of the exams team are there, what areas do they cover?<br />
</h4>There are 7 members of the exams team, covering the length and breadth of the U.K as well as Europe and International. We examine 7 days a week so as you can imagine it gets quite busy and frantic at this time but we do like to have fun in the process!<br />
<h4><br />
What's the most difficult part of your job?<br />
</h4>I think the most difficult part would be trying to please everyone. We try to fit all candidates into the session they ask for but it&#8217;s just not possible to do this for everyone. Also we have lots of examiners to&nbsp;organise&nbsp;and communicate information to, sometimes unfortunately, things do go wrong.&nbsp;<br />
<h4><br />
How many different areas do you cover?<br />
</h4>I cover one of the biggest catchment areas in the business &#8211; The North &amp; Scotland, with well over 10 counties and 2 countries. I&#8217;m almost super human...
<h3> The Exams</h3>
<h4>How many exam entries do you get through in this exam session?<br />
</h4>With Period B being one of our busiest, entries exceed 5 figures. It&#8217;s a crazy time of year! We ask all candidates to be very patient during this time.&nbsp;<br />
<h4><br />
How many exam periods are there in the year, why is period B the busiest?<br />
</h4>There are 3 exam periods in the year A, B &amp; C.
<ul>
<li>A: 1st February to 31st March &#8211; Entry Closes 1st December</li>
<li>B: 1st May to 31st July &#8211; Entry Closes 1st April </li>
<li>C: 23rd October to 15th December &#8211; Entry Closes 1st October</li></ul> As to why period B is the busiest &#8211; It is our longest but who knows? Maybe it&#8217;s the rush of people who pick up an instrument in the New Year?&nbsp;<br />
<h4><br />
Which instrument receives the most exam entries and why?<br />
</h4>Without a doubt guitar and drums are the highest of all &#8211; everyone wants to be guitarist or drummer so it would seem! They're also very well written syllabi (not that the others aren't) &amp; are often seen as the 'traditional rock instruments'.
<h4><br />
What advice would you give to candidates filling out their entry forms?<br />
</h4>It pains me to say but the amount of entry forms than aren&#8217;t filled in correctly or are unreadable is astonishing! The best advice is always the simplest &#8211; read the form carefully and thoroughly (3 times if you have to) most dates are arranged when we receive your form and can&#8217;t be changed once their put in the system so please check and re-check again before sending.<br />
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Also our exam periods are not the same as school term times, if candidates dont want to be examined outside of term time they need to clearly express the dates they can not attend.<br />
<h3>Final Thoughts</h3>
<h4>What do the exams team listen to on a busy day like today?</h4>We get through a real mixture of different stuff, no one band stays on for very long. It tends to be a mash of The Beatles, Motown, Bowie and Beady Eye at the moment. <br />
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<h4>What's the easiest way for a parent/candidate to contact Rockschool if they need to cancel or amend an exam?</h4>We always say email is the best way so the phone lines don&#8217;t get blocked up &#8211; however that being said if you have an urgent enquiry please feel free to ring ahead. <br />
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<h4>How are this current period&#8217;s results shaping up, when will they be sent out? </h4>Yeah they&#8217;re looking great; we&#8217;re going through the bulk of them at the moment. We usually take about 1-2 weeks to get the results out. If you&#8217;re waiting on your results fear not &#8211; they&#8217;ll be released shortly.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/i9kVlaAb59w" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=77Nationwide Music Competition: 'Next Brit Thing'http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/v-HS0r6Jb_s/newsarticle.aspx<a href="http://www.nextbritthing.com"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=357" align="left" title="Click for more info" style="height: 101px;width:203px;padding-right:10px;" /></a> Young people aged 11-19 from Great Britain and Northern Ireland are being encouraged to register for Next BRIT thing &#8211; a major new nationwide music competition backed by the UK music industry and The Government.<br />
<br />
Next BRIT thing is looking for young musicians in any genre to share their performances, compete in online charts and perform live. There are separate categories for both pop/rock &amp; classical music, with an additional award for composition.<br />
<br />
Next BRIT thing is open to all 11-19 year olds whether in formal education or not. It offers entrants a raft of prizes and money-can&#8217;t-buy opportunities, including the chance to perform in front of thousands and exclusive support and guidance from professional musicians and songwriters. The lucky winners &#8211; to be chosen by a team of influential artists and music industry executives &#8211; will be crowned Next BRIT thing and receive a unique award.<br />
<br />
This is a major cross-curricular learning opportunity from The Government and industry. It will appeal to all children and young people whilst enabling them to develop their creative talents, confidence and skills. Young people entering Next BRIT thing will also have access to high-quality tutorials and resources to help them improve their skills, develop confidence and explore careers in the creative industries.<br />
<br />
The Next BRIT thing <a href="http://www.nextbritthing.com" target="_self">website</a>&nbsp;is already open for registration. From September 2011, entrants can submit video and audio of their performances to be assessed by their peers as a weekly chart. The best and most popular will progress to regional finals in November 2011, culminating in a national final early in 2012.<br />
<br />
Some of the UK&#8217;s biggest stars are supporting Next BRIT thing:<br />
<br />
<strong>Paloma Faith</strong> -<em>&#8220;I am so excited about the Next BRIT thing. The international charts have shown that there is so much talent on our green island to tap in to. Music is so exciting and I can&#8217;t wait to hear what some of the entrants are doing&#8230;.&#8221;</em> <br />
<br />
For further information, please contact:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hello@nextbritthing.com">hello@nextbritthing.com</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<strong>Tweet:</strong> @nextbritthing<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/v-HS0r6Jb_s" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=90Take Part In Music for Youth's National Festivalhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/TPKHM6AhohE/newsarticle.aspx<a shape="rect" href="http://www.mfy.org.uk/coreseason/national"><img align="left" title="Click for more information" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=345" complete="complete" style="width: 300px; padding-right: 15px; height: 151px" /></a>
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Music for Youth's National Festival takes place on the 4th-9th July, if you'd like to be involved please check out all the performance slots below.
<h3>Every Day 4-9 July 2011</h3>
<h4>Emerging Leaders - Young Presenters &amp; Music Mentors</h4>If any of your students, aged 18-21, have what it takes to be a National Festival presenter or Music Mentor put them forward for Emerging Leaders. We&#8217;re looking for confident individuals looking for the opportunity to work with professionals and get hands on, behind the scenes experience to develop a better understanding of these roles.<br />
<br />
To sign up email: <a shape="rect" href="mailto:dnairn@mfy.org.uk">dnairn@mfy.org.uk</a>
<h4><br />
Emerging Leaders - E/Volve Studio: Media opportunities</h4>Use the Patrick Music &amp; Multimedia Suite at Symphony Hall. Create reviews, documentaries, interviews and photographs &#8211; we&#8217;ll even put some of the projects up on our website and social networking sites.<br />
<br />
To sign up email: <a shape="rect" href="mailto:alistair@mfy.org.uk">alistair@mfy.org.uk</a>
<h3>Tuesday 5 July 2011</h3>
<h4>The Big Sing &#8211; National Youth Choir</h4><strong>Symphony Hall, Tuesday 5 July, 13.15-14.15</strong><br />
<br />
Join Greg Beardsell, Dominic Peckham and members of the National Youth Choir for a big choral mash-up of pop, jazz and gospel riffs. For singers of all ages, this is seriously good fun, energetic and dynamic. Just bring your voice and your imagination.<br />
<br />
To sign up email: <a shape="rect" href="mailto:dnairn@mfy.org.uk">dnairn@mfy.org.uk</a>
<h3>Friday 8 July 2011</h3>
<h4>Performance Opportunity</h4><strong>Centenary Square, Friday 8 July, 30 minute performance slots available</strong><br />
<br />
Showcase your talent on the MFY outdoor stage and perform alongside musicians from across the UK. Performances will take place between 12pm-2pm, 2.30-4pm and 5.30pm-6pm. <br />
<br />
To sign up email: <a shape="rect" href="mailto:tim@mfy.org.uk">tim@mfy.org.uk</a>
<h4><br />
Youth Music Theatre UK Workshops</h4><strong>Birmingham Conservatoire, Friday 8 July, 11.30-12.50 &amp; 13.30-14.50 </strong><br />
<br />
How do you get an audience hanging on to your every note? How do you communicate emotions so the audience really feel it in the same way you do? <br />
<br />
This workshop will look at a very different type of improvisation &#8211; improvising mini scenarios communicating human emotions, it will be very dynamic and great fun. Amongst the tutors leading the workshop will be New Orleans Jazz trumpeter/singer <a shape="rect" href="http://abramwilson.com/" target="_blank">Abram Wilson</a>, an&nbsp;up and coming British jazz talent. <br />
<br />
Any instrumentalist wanting to expand their performance skills and explore the relationship between acting and playing is welcome to take part.<br />
<br />
To sign up email: <a shape="rect" href="mailto:sam@mfy.org.uk">sam@mfy.org.uk</a> or call: <strong>020 7759 1833</strong>
<h4><br />
Everybody Play</h4><strong>Symphony Hall, Friday 8 July, 12.55pm-2.00pm</strong><br />
<br />
Join other musicians in an extra large, celebratory performance of PLAY! the brand new composition for the MFY season by Tim Steiner, commissioned by MFY and rockschool. PLAY is very flexible with a range of parts playable by any number and combination of instruments and voices - bring your instrument or get ready to sing to take part. Come and perform alongside musicians of any style, any age and any level of ability &#8211; everyone is welcome!<br />
<br />
<a shape="rect" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=82" target="_self">Download</a><strong>&nbsp;'PLAY'</strong> Audio &amp; Sheet music.<br />
<br />
To sign up email: <a shape="rect" href="mailto:luke@mfy.org.uk">luke@mfy.org.uk</a><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/TPKHM6AhohE" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=85Teaching & Performance Diplomas Results - March & April 2011http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/oe-iha0QH8c/newsarticle.aspx<br />
<br />
<p style="text-align: center; margin: 0px"><a shape="rect" href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/diplomas/"><img title="Teaching & Performance Diplomas" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=341" complete="complete" complete="complete" style="width: 250px; padding-right: 15px; height: 73px" /></a></p><br />
<br />
We've had some fantastic results this year for both the&nbsp;Teaching &amp; Performance Diplomas, producing some truely inspiring work and candidates.&nbsp;A new generation of&nbsp;Teachers and Musicians are&nbsp;created each year through the Diploma programme, and not only in England.&nbsp;Here are the results from our&nbsp;March&nbsp;&amp; April&nbsp;candidates. <br />
<br />
<table class="GridView">
<tbody>
<tr><th class="LeftTop">Candidate</th><th class="Center">Qualification</th><th class="RightTop">Result</th></tr>
<tr class="Dark">
<td class="LeftLeft" style="width: 20%">Mattia Santini</td>
<td style="width: 20%">DipRSL (Perf)&nbsp;<img align="left" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=284" complete="complete" 3?="" complete="complete" style="width: 15px; padding-right: 3px; height: 17px" /></td>
<td class="CenterRight" style="width: 20%">Pass</td></tr>
<tr>
<td class="LeftLeft">Ryan Hodges</td>
<td>DipRSL (Perf)<img align="left" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=284" complete="complete" 3?="" complete="complete" style="width: 15px; padding-right: 3px; height: 17px" /></td>
<td class="CenterRight">Pass</td></tr>
<tr class="Dark">
<td class="LeftLeft" style="width: 20%">Martin Thiselton</td>
<td style="width: 20%">DipRSL<img align="left" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=283" complete="complete" 3?="" complete="complete" style="width: 15px; padding-right: 3px; height: 17px" /></td>
<td class="CenterRight" style="width: 20%">Pass</td></tr>
<tr>
<td class="LeftLeft">Keith Ramskill</td>
<td>LRSL<img align="left" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=283" complete="complete" 3?="" complete="complete" style="width: 15px; padding-right: 3px; height: 17px" /></td>
<td class="CenterRight">Pass</td></tr>
<tr class="Dark">
<td class="LeftLeft" style="width: 20%">Susan Roland</td>
<td style="width: 20%">DipRSL<img align="left" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=283" complete="complete" 3?="" complete="complete" style="width: 15px; padding-right: 3px; height: 17px" /></td>
<td class="CenterRight" style="width: 20%">Pass</td></tr>
<tr>
<td class="LeftLeft">Damian Herron</td>
<td>DipRSL<img align="left" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=283" complete="complete" 3?="" complete="complete" style="width: 15px; padding-right: 3px; height: 17px" /></td>
<td class="CenterRight">Pass</td></tr>
<tr>
<td class="Footer" colspan="3"><br/></td></tr></tbody></table><br />
<h4>Roland Iberia</h4>Roland Iberia were the first to trial a new submission format&nbsp;for our Teaching Diplomas which created some amazing results with four students recieving Distinction.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;
<table class="GridView">
<tbody>
<tr><th class="LeftTop">Candidate</th><th class="Center">Qualification</th><th class="RightTop">Result</th></tr>
<tr class="Dark">
<td class="LeftLeft" style="width: 20%">Inigo Corcuera Redondo</td>
<td style="width: 20%">LRSL<img align="left" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=283" complete="complete" 3?="" complete="complete" style="width: 15px; padding-right: 3px; height: 17px" /></td>
<td class="CenterRight" style="width: 20%">Pass</td></tr>
<tr>
<td class="LeftLeft">Blas Fernandez De La Oz</td>
<td>LRSL<img align="left" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=283" complete="complete" 3?="" complete="complete" style="width: 15px; padding-right: 3px; height: 17px" /></td>
<td class="CenterRight">Pass</td></tr>
<tr class="Dark">
<td class="LeftLeft" style="width: 20%">Puche</td>
<td style="width: 20%">LRSL<img align="left" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=283" complete="complete" 3?="" complete="complete" style="width: 15px; padding-right: 3px; height: 17px" /></td>
<td class="CenterRight" style="width: 20%">Distinction</td></tr>
<tr>
<td class="LeftLeft">Juan Saurin Cloquell</td>
<td>LRSL<img align="left" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=283" complete="complete" 3?="" complete="complete" style="width: 15px; padding-right: 3px; height: 17px" /></td>
<td class="CenterRight">Distinction</td></tr>
<tr class="Dark">
<td class="LeftLeft" style="width: 20%">Oscar Martinez Escamilla</td>
<td style="width: 20%">LRSL<img align="left" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=283" complete="complete" 3?="" complete="complete" style="width: 15px; padding-right: 3px; height: 17px" /></td>
<td class="CenterRight" style="width: 20%">Pass</td></tr>
<tr>
<td class="LeftLeft">Jaume Pla Soler</td>
<td>DipRSL<img align="left" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=283" complete="complete" 3?="" complete="complete" style="width: 15px; padding-right: 3px; height: 17px" /></td>
<td class="CenterRight">Pass</td></tr>
<tr class="Dark">
<td class="LeftLeft" style="width: 20%">Rodriguez</td>
<td style="width: 20%">LRSL<img align="left" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=283" complete="complete" 3?="" complete="complete" style="width: 15px; padding-right: 3px; height: 17px" /></td>
<td class="CenterRight" style="width: 20%">Distinction</td></tr>
<tr>
<td class="LeftLeft">Benito Cabaleiro Vazquez</td>
<td>DipRSL<img align="left" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=283" complete="complete" 3?="" complete="complete" style="width: 15px; padding-right: 3px; height: 17px" /></td>
<td class="CenterRight">Distinction</td></tr>
<tr class="Dark">
<td class="LeftLeft" style="width: 20%">Timiraos</td>
<td style="width: 20%">LRSL<img align="left" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=283" complete="complete" 3?="" complete="complete" style="width: 15px; padding-right: 3px; height: 17px" /></td>
<td class="CenterRight" style="width: 20%">Pass</td></tr>
<tr>
<td class="LeftLeft">Jose Hernandez Navarro</td>
<td>LRSL<img align="left" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=283" complete="complete" 3?="" complete="complete" style="width: 15px; padding-right: 3px; height: 17px" /></td>
<td class="CenterRight">Pass</td></tr>
<tr class="Dark">
<td class="LeftLeft" style="width: 20%">Fernando Giron Camacho</td>
<td style="width: 20%">LRSL<img align="left" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=283" complete="complete" 3?="" complete="complete" style="width: 15px; padding-right: 3px; height: 17px" /></td>
<td class="CenterRight" style="width: 20%">Pass</td></tr>
<tr>
<td class="Footer" colspan="3"><br/></td></tr></tbody></table>
<h4>Jam Session - Barcelona</h4>
<table class="GridView">
<tbody>
<tr><th class="LeftTop">Candidate</th><th class="Center">Qualification</th><th class="RightTop">Result</th></tr>
<tr class="Dark">
<td class="LeftLeft" style="width: 20%">Enric Asensio</td>
<td style="width: 20%">DipRSL (Perf)<img align="left" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=284" complete="complete" 3?="" complete="complete" style="width: 15px; padding-right: 3px; height: 17px" /></td>
<td class="CenterRight" style="width: 20%">Pass</td></tr>
<tr>
<td class="LeftLeft">Dani Villa</td>
<td>DipRSL (Perf)<img align="left" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=284" complete="complete" 3?="" complete="complete" style="width: 15px; padding-right: 3px; height: 17px" /></td>
<td class="CenterRight">Pass</td></tr>
<tr class="Dark">
<td class="LeftLeft" style="width: 20%">Cesar Tomas</td>
<td style="width: 20%">DipRSL (Perf)<img align="left" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=284" complete="complete" 3?="" complete="complete" style="width: 15px; padding-right: 3px; height: 17px" /></td>
<td class="CenterRight" style="width: 20%">Pass</td></tr>
<tr>
<td class="LeftLeft">Emilio Nieto</td>
<td>DipRSL (Perf)<img align="left" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=284" complete="complete" 3?="" complete="complete" style="width: 15px; padding-right: 3px; height: 17px" /></td>
<td class="CenterRight">Pass</td></tr>
<tr class="Dark">
<td class="LeftLeft" style="width: 20%">Pablo Posa</td>
<td style="width: 20%">LRSL<img align="left" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=283" complete="complete" 3?="" complete="complete" style="width: 15px; padding-right: 3px; height: 17px" /></td>
<td class="CenterRight" style="width: 20%">Pass</td></tr>
<tr>
<td class="LeftLeft">Jeroni Pagan</td>
<td>LRSL<img align="left" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=283" complete="complete" 3?="" complete="complete" style="width: 15px; padding-right: 3px; height: 17px" /></td>
<td class="CenterRight">Pass</td></tr>
<tr class="Dark">
<td class="LeftLeft" style="width: 20%">Moserrat Serrano</td>
<td style="width: 20%">LRSL<img align="left" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=283" complete="complete" 3?="" complete="complete" style="width: 15px; padding-right: 3px; height: 17px" /></td>
<td class="CenterRight" style="width: 20%">Pass</td></tr>
<tr>
<td class="LeftLeft">Juan Pedro Medina</td>
<td>LRSL<img align="left" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=283" complete="complete" 3?="" complete="complete" style="width: 15px; padding-right: 3px; height: 17px" /></td>
<td class="CenterRight">Distinction</td></tr>
<tr class="Dark">
<td class="LeftLeft" style="width: 20%">Emilio Nieto</td>
<td style="width: 20%">DipRSL<img align="left" title="" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=283" complete="complete" 3?="" complete="complete" style="width: 15px; padding-right: 3px; height: 17px" /></td>
<td class="CenterRight" style="width: 20%">Pass</td></tr>
<tr>
<td class="Footer" colspan="3"><br/></td></tr></tbody></table><br />
A big congratulations goes out to all our&nbsp;Performance and Teaching Diploma candidates.&nbsp;Good luck to everyone in your future careers from everyone here at Rockschool.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/oe-iha0QH8c" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=79Guitar Techniques July Issue (193)http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/a3yF7TzIeto/newsarticle.aspx<h3>Guitar Techniques July Issue -&nbsp;'Big, Big, Big'</h3>
<table style="width: 90%">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>We have a monthly column in Guitar Techniques magazine. It offers advice on scale choices, soloing strategies and many other ways to expand your playing. <br />
<br />
This month features Guitar Grade 6&nbsp;piece, 'Big Big Big' -&nbsp;&nbsp;A Latin track in the style of guitar legend, Carlos Santana. The solo section of the track is ideal for students wanting&nbsp;to get&nbsp;their&nbsp;teeth stuck into the&nbsp;harmonic minor scale.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
To get the other&nbsp;tracks and sheet music&nbsp;for the Guitar Grade 6 exam you&nbsp;will need the Guitar Grade 6 book, available from <a shape="rect" href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/ID_No/0385297/details.html" target="_blank">musicroom.com<br />
</a></td>
<td style="padding-left: 20px"><a shape="rect" id="hypProgressionOne" href="http://www.musicradar.com/guitartechniques"><img title="Guitar Techniques Magazine" id="GuitarTechniquesIssue193" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=340" complete="complete" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; width: 130px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; height: 170px; border-left-width: 0px" /></a></td></tr></tbody></table>
<h4>Resources</h4>The resources you need for the Rockschool Guitar Techniques feature in&nbsp;the July Issue can be found below:<br />
<br />
<table class="Document">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td class="Icon"><img class="AdobeReader" id="imgAdobeReaderIcon" alt="Adobe Reader Icon" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/IconAdobeReader.gif" complete="complete" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=338">Sheet Music - Grade 6 Guitar - 'Big Big Big'</a></strong><br />
(213KB, 2 pages, .pdf)</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table class="Document">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td class="Icon"><img class="Zip" id="ZipIconGuitarGradeThree" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/IconZip.gif" complete="complete" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=337">'Big Big Big' Audio</a></strong><br />
(10MB, .zip)</td></tr></tbody></table>
<h4><br />
<br />
Related Products</h4>
<p>You may find the following books useful for preparing for the Guitar Grade 6 exam:</p>
<p></p>
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<table class="RelatedProducts" 50%?="" ?width:="">
<tbody>
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<td class="RelatedProductsHeader" colspan="2"><br/></td></tr>
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<td style="width: 80%"><a shape="rect" id="hypRelatedProductOne" href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/ID_No/0385297/details.html"><img id="imgRelatedProductOne" alt="Rockschool Guitar - Grade 6" src="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/resources/images/gradedmusicexams/bookcovers/guitar/gradesix.png" complete="complete" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; width: 143px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; height: 196px; border-left-width: 0px" /></a><br />
<br />
<span class="BookCoverTitle">Rockschool Guitar<br />
Grade 6<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Bold">Price:</span> &#163;15.99<br />
<span class="Bold">Media:</span> Sheet Music &amp; CD<br />
<span class="Bold">Language:</span> English<br />
<a shape="rect" id="hypRelatedProductTwoLearnMore" href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/ID_No/0385297/details.html">Learn more...</a></td></tr>
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<td class="RelatedProductsFooter" colspan="2"><br/></td></tr></tbody></table></td>
<td style="width: 20px"><br/></td>
<td>
<table class="RelatedProducts">
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<td class="RelatedProductsHeader" colspan="2"><br/></td></tr>
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<td><a shape="rect" id="hypRelatedProductTwo" href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/ID_No/0705976/details.html"><img id="imgRelatedProductTwo" alt="Rockschool Guitar - Technical Companion" src="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/resources/images/gradedmusicexams/bookcovers/guitar/technicalcompanion.png" complete="complete" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; width: 143px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; height: 196px; border-left-width: 0px" /></a><br />
<br />
<span class="BookCoverTitle">Rockschool Guitar<br />
Technical Companion<br />
</span><br />
<span class="Bold">Price:</span> &#163;10.00<br />
<span class="Bold">Media:</span> Sheet Music<br />
<span class="Bold">Language:</span> English<br />
<a shape="rect" id="hypRelatedProductTwoLearnMore" href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/ID_No/0705976/details.html">Learn more...</a></td></tr>
<tr>
<td class="RelatedProductsFooter" colspan="2"><br/></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/a3yF7TzIeto" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=83Top Tips For Beginner Keyboards: Improvisation Part 4http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/KysXgqXZ4Hg/newsarticle.aspx<br />
<br />
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<h4>Improvisation Idea 4: Solo</h4><a shape="rect" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=68" target="_blank">Last week</a> we looked at simple improvisation with rhythmic chords, this week we'll focus on solo improvisation. <br />
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Solo's are more often than not the bit you wait for. They&nbsp;will generally be played in the upper register as this is where the organ &#8216;speaks&#8217; and is most vibrant. You need to think instrumentally and where the organ is most effective at. Grace notes to long held notes are effective as well as building chords by adding one note at a time. <br />
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Another technique is neat fast runs probably based on a chord or arpeggio. These are mostly most effective in the upper register as lower down they sound muddy and unclear. Glissandos are also highly stylistic but be careful that they are not over used. The temptation is to do lots of them as they sound great, but the best tunes use things like this sparingly. This way the audience want to hear the track again just for the moment you do it. Too many become boring! <br />
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Take a look at the following tracks for more soloing ideas: <br />
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&#8216;Enough Said&#8217; at Grade 4</h4><a shape="rect" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=260"><img align="left" title="Click to view larger image" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=259" complete="complete" complete="complete" style="width: 456px; padding-right: 2px; height: 204px" /></a>
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&#8216;All Funked Up&#8217; at Grade 5</h4><a shape="rect" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=262"><img align="left" title="Click to view larger image" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=261" complete="complete" complete="complete" style="width: 456px; padding-right: 2px; height: 204px" /></a>
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<div style="clear: both"></div><br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/KysXgqXZ4Hg" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=69Music for Youth: 'PLAY' - Free Improvisation Track And Sheet Musichttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/4zGGK_3Mobc/newsarticle.aspx<strong>Music for Youth's 'PLAY' is a exciting piece of music that is an ideal&nbsp;starting point for students wanting to improve their own improvisation. </strong>
<h3>PLAY</h3><strong><a shape="rect" href="http://www.mfy.org.uk/evolve/thesoundvault" target="_blank">PLAY</a></strong>&nbsp;is an original piece written by composer <a shape="rect" href="http://www.timsteiner.co.uk/biography/" target="_blank">Tim Steiner</a>, commissioned by MFY. PLAY is very flexible with a range of parts playable by any number and any combination of instruments and voices and marks the start of a new strand of work by MFY. There are three different versions of PLAY&nbsp;(Flexible PLAY, Instant PLAY &amp; Starting to PLAY) that you can use in whichever way works best for you&nbsp;or when playing in a band.&nbsp;<br />
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Grab the audio below then&nbsp;choose from our selected pdfs to get started or, watch the <a shape="rect" href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f2hAeBHOSfY&feature=player_embedded" target="_blank">video introduction<br />
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<td class="Icon"><img class="Audio-Speakerr" id="imgAudio-Speaker" alt="Audio Icon" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=335" complete="complete" complete="complete" style="width: 20px; height: 30px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=336">PLAY - Basic Thumb Groove</a></strong><br />
(5.90MB,&nbsp;5mins, .mp3)</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
<h3>Make Your Own Version &amp; Send MFY The Results.</h3>Make your own version and send&nbsp;Music for Youth&nbsp;the results! The possibilities really&nbsp;are endless and the MFY team are&nbsp;waiting with baited breath to hear your mash-ups of the track.&nbsp;If you're in any kind of&nbsp;rock, pop&nbsp;or metal band, see how far you can push yourselves and really get creative with the track. We'd love to hear your take on the music - follow the links below to send them your track.<br />
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Upload&nbsp;Your&nbsp;Audio to <a shape="rect" href="http://soundcloud.com/upload" target="_blank">soundcloud<br />
</a>Upload Your Video to <a shape="rect" href="http://www.mfy.org.uk/evolve/Feedback" target="_self">YouTube<br />
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<h3>Starting to PLAY'</h3>This is for young musicians (or teachers working with students) primarily below Grade 3 standard who are up for having a go at something new&nbsp;and want to challenge themselves. <br />
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<td class="Icon"><img class="AdobeReader" id="imgAdobeReaderIcon" alt="Adobe Reader Icon" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/IconAdobeReader.gif" complete="complete" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=334">Starting to PLAY - Complete Score with Instructions</a></strong><br />
(386KB,&nbsp;5 pages, .pdf)</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
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<h3>Flexible PLAY.</h3>This is for&nbsp;young musicians (or teachers working with students)&nbsp;primarily Grade 3 and above who are up for a bit of creative exploration. <br />
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Please choose from the following .pdfs depending on your instrument or simply download the full score if you want the whole thing! Remember, do read the instructions before diving in, these will help you to get familiar with the individual parts of the piece. <br />
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<td class="Icon"><img class="AdobeReader" id="imgAdobeReaderIcon" alt="Adobe Reader Icon" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/IconAdobeReader.gif" complete="complete" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=321">Flexible PLAY - Instructions'</a></strong><br />
(213KB,&nbsp;2 pages, .pdf)</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
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<td class="Icon"><img class="AdobeReader" id="imgAdobeReaderIcon" alt="Adobe Reader Icon" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/IconAdobeReader.gif" complete="complete" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=322">Flexible PLAY - Full Score</a></strong><br />
(490KB,&nbsp;14 pages, .pdf)</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
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<td class="Icon"><img class="AdobeReader" id="imgAdobeReaderIcon" alt="Adobe Reader Icon" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/IconAdobeReader.gif" complete="complete" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=323">Flexible PLAY - Guitar Score</a></strong><br />
(73KB,&nbsp;2 pages, .pdf)</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
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<td class="Icon"><img class="AdobeReader" id="imgAdobeReaderIcon" alt="Adobe Reader Icon" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/IconAdobeReader.gif" complete="complete" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=324">Flexible PLAY - Guitar TAB</a></strong><br />
(79KB,&nbsp;2 pages, .pdf)</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
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<td class="Icon"><img class="AdobeReader" id="imgAdobeReaderIcon" alt="Adobe Reader Icon" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/IconAdobeReader.gif" complete="complete" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=325">Flexible PLAY - Bass Score</a></strong><br />
(66KB,&nbsp;2 pages, .pdf)</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
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<td class="Icon"><img class="AdobeReader" id="imgAdobeReaderIcon" alt="Adobe Reader Icon" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/IconAdobeReader.gif" complete="complete" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=326">Flexible PLAY - Drum Score</a></strong><br />
(63KB,&nbsp;2 pages, .pdf)</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
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<td class="Icon"><img class="AdobeReader" id="imgAdobeReaderIcon" alt="Adobe Reader Icon" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/IconAdobeReader.gif" complete="complete" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=327">Flexible PLAY - Piano Score</a></strong><br />
(74KB,&nbsp;2 pages, .pdf)</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
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<h3>Instant Play</h3>This is for musicians (or teachers working with students)&nbsp;primarily Grade 3 and above who simply want to play the piece from beginning to the end. Choose from the following downloads: <br />
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<td class="Icon"><img class="AdobeReader" id="imgAdobeReaderIcon" alt="Adobe Reader Icon" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/IconAdobeReader.gif" complete="complete" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=328">Instant PLAY - Instructions</a></strong><br />
(216KB,&nbsp;2 pages, .pdf)</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
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<td class="Icon"><img class="AdobeReader" id="imgAdobeReaderIcon" alt="Adobe Reader Icon" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/IconAdobeReader.gif" complete="complete" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=329">Instant PLAY - Complete Score</a></strong><br />
(632KB,&nbsp;20 pages, .pdf)</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
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<td class="Icon"><img class="AdobeReader" id="imgAdobeReaderIcon" alt="Adobe Reader Icon" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/IconAdobeReader.gif" complete="complete" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=330">Instant PLAY - Guitar Score</a></strong><br />
(95KB,&nbsp;3 pages, .pdf)</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
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<td class="Icon"><img class="AdobeReader" id="imgAdobeReaderIcon" alt="Adobe Reader Icon" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/IconAdobeReader.gif" complete="complete" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=331">Instant PLAY - Bass Score</a></strong><br />
(89KB,&nbsp;3 pages, .pdf)</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
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<td class="Icon"><img class="AdobeReader" id="imgAdobeReaderIcon" alt="Adobe Reader Icon" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/IconAdobeReader.gif" complete="complete" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=332">Instant PLAY - Drum Score</a></strong><br />
(101KB,&nbsp;5 pages, .pdf)</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
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<td class="Icon"><img class="AdobeReader" id="imgAdobeReaderIcon" alt="Adobe Reader Icon" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/IconAdobeReader.gif" complete="complete" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=333">Instant PLAY - Piano Score</a></strong><br />
(132KB,&nbsp;5 pages, .pdf)</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/4zGGK_3Mobc" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=82Top Tips For Beginner Keyboards: Improvisation Part 3http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/FL9JSZd_J8A/newsarticle.aspx<h4>Improvisation Idea 3: Chords &#8211; Rhythmic<br />
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</h4><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=282" align="left" title="" style="width: 69px;height: 65px;padding-right:15px;" /><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=67" target="_self">Last week</a> we looked at 'atmospheric chords' - this week we'll focus around simple improvisation with rhythmic chords.&nbsp;<br />
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<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; text-align: left; ">The primary use of chords is to emphasise the rhythmic nature of the piece, often on the backbeat (beats 2 and 4) with the snare. This will particularly useful in Funk when a solid groove is essential. These add a forward drive to the piece and are often short and accented to add to the drum groove. </p><br />
Try to establish a simple rhythmic phrase over two bars that repeat&#8217;s. Do not try to play different rhythms in every bar. A good song is identified by the memorable ideas which are often very simple. <br />
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Take a look at the following pieces for more ideas:
<h4>'Download' at Grade 3</h4><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=253"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=254" align="left" title="Click to view larger image" style="width: 456px;height: 204px;padding-right:2px;" /></a>
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<h4>&#8216;Enough Said&#8217; at Grade 4</h4><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=260"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=259" align="left" title="Click to view larger image" style="width: 456px;height: 204px;padding-right:2px;" /></a>
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<div style="clear:both;"></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/FL9JSZd_J8A" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=68The Roundhouse: Unsigned Competitionhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/gn4TEoKRNPQ/newsarticle.aspx<a href="http://www.roundhouse.org.uk/whats-on/productions/3030-2011"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=298" align="right" title="Find out more" style="height:164px;width:161px;padding-left:15px" /></a>
<h4>30 days, 30 great tracks, 1 great opportunity</h4><strong><br />
The Roundhouse and EMI dedicate September to emerging talent with 30/30</strong><br />
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The Roundhouse has joined forces with EMI for the third year of 30/30, a groundbreaking youth music project designed to find and cultivate new and emerging talent. Every day this September, 30/30 will offer unsigned artists between the ages of 16-25, one day in the Roundhouse&#8217;s EMI Live Music Studio, along with top guest producers to professionally record and mix their track for free.<br />
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Selected tracks created throughout the month will be compiled for the 30/30 Album 2011, which is released by the Roundhouse&#8217;s in-house label Roundhouse Records and is available to buy via iTunes, with all of the proceeds going towards creating further opportunities for young people within the arts. The lucky acts chosen by the Roundhouse team will then have the opportunity to put their questions to a panel of experts from all areas of the industry from artist management and marketing, through to publishing and A&amp;R. 30/30 is non-genre specific and aims to attract an eclectic variety of artists.<br />
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<strong>Oli Kluczewski, Music Programme Co-ordinator at the Roundhouse:</strong> <br />
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<em>&#8220;30/30 is all about developing and nurturing a thriving musical community of emerging artists and putting them together with top flight music industry professionals. Year on year 30/30 will seek to develop this community through recording and performance opportunities with expert industry advice. Through 30/30 and Roundhouse Records, we&#8217;re presenting a brand new model for supporting and championing emerging music in the UK, pushing our artists into the digital world with cutting edge technology such as live web streaming, Roundhouse Radio and our in-house production team.&#8221;</em> <br />
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Visit the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.roundhouse.org.uk/3030" target="_blank">Roundhouse site</a> to submit your music.<br />
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<strong>Deadline: 18 July</strong><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/gn4TEoKRNPQ" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=81Top Tips For Beginner Keyboards: Improvisation Part 2http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/Tjd593lMsrc/newsarticle.aspx<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=282" align="left" title="" style="width: 69px;height: 65px;padding-right:15px;" /><strong>Last week we looked at playing rock keyboards, and gave you an improvisation idea based around a riff.</strong> <br />
<a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/newsarticles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=66" target="_blank">View last weeks lesson<br />
</a><br />
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This week we look at chords - chords will often take up the bulk of your playing but don't necessarily have to be boring.
<h4>'Chords &#8211; Atmospheric'</h4>These are generally rhythmically simple and often last for several bars. The most important consideration is the spacing. Do not be tempted to play block chords that have too many notes too close together. A single low note in the left hand and the right hand in the register that is not covered by the guitar will be most effective. <br />
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If the guitar is in the high register, play chords in the middle. However, space them accordingly - avoid the third of the chord. Usually the root and fifth is most stylistic. <br />
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Examples of this can be found in these Band Based Keys tracks:
<h4>'Download' at Grade 3</h4><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=253"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=254" align="left" title="Click to view larger image" style="width: 456px;height: 204px;padding-right:2px;" /></a>
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<h4>&#8216;Enough Said&#8217; at Grade 4</h4><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=260"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=259" align="left" title="Click to view larger image" style="width: 456px;height: 204px;padding-right:2px;" /></a>
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<h4>&#8216;All Funked Up&#8217; at Grade 5</h4><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=262"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=261" align="left" title="Click to view larger image" style="width: 456px;height: 204px;padding-right:2px;" /></a>
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<div style="clear:both;"></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/Tjd593lMsrc" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=67Win a Free Scholarship For The Ministry of Guitar & IGF Summer Academieshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/qkQGhNKT61s/newsarticle.aspx<a href="http://www.ministryofguitar.co.uk/Booking.html"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=277" align="right" title="Book a place" style="width: 200px;height: 150px;padding-left:10px;" /></a><strong>We have teamed up with the International Guitar Foundation to offer you the chance to win a FREE scholarship to both the London &amp; Exeter summer academies. </strong><br />
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The two summer academies, set to take place in London and Exeter respectively, offer 11-18 year old musicians 5 days of world class tutoring and workshops whilst studying the music they love.&nbsp;<br />
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London Rocks kicks off at the Guitar Institute 23 to 27 July and South West Rocks takes place at the University Of Exeter 8 to 12 August. The IGF are promising <em>&quot;five days of music making with exceptional tutors and state of the art facilities.&quot;</em><br />
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Led by IGF's senior tutor Martin Goulding, the syllabus will cover a variety of techniques from rhythm playing to soloing. The set list boasts a who's who of classic rock artists such as Jimi Hendrix, Black Sabbath and AC/CD and alternative rock artists like Foo Fighters and Red Hot Chili Peppers, which any Rockschool student studying the <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/Search/Find.aspx?searchtext=rockschool+hot+rock+guitar" target="_blank">Hot Rock Guitar Grades</a> will already be familiar with. &nbsp;<br />
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More advanced players will explore the styles of 'The Big Four' &#8211; thrash metal legends Metallica, Megadeth, Slayer and Anthrax.<br />
<h4>Competition</h4>If you'd like the chance to win a FREE scholarship to either the London or Exeter academies simply record yourself playing any Guitar Grade 3 or 4 piece from the syllabus, upload it to YouTube and send the link to <strong>liz@igf.org.uk</strong> by the 15th June.<br />
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Good Luck!&nbsp;<br />
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<br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/qkQGhNKT61s" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=78Top Tips For Beginner Keyboards: Improvisation Part 1http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/-QQdYqXZm48/newsarticle.aspx<h4>Playing Rock Keyboards</h4> Keyboards provide a unique and solid sound for many popular Rock and Pop bands. Here are some Top Tips on improvisation from our Keyboards expect.&nbsp;<br />
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The keys are often very important to the band but if you were asked to name the player, it might not be so easy. Although keyboards have hundreds of sounds (patches) available, you are mostly using four.
<ul>
<li>Organ</li>
<li>Piano</li>
<li>Strings</li>
<li>Synth</li></ul>Good keys players will be able to achieve a lot with these simple sounds. To be most effective you need to consider the patch that is stylistically relevant to the song. These improvisation ideas work for Keys players in a band, playing to a backing track and for solo improvisation.
<h4>Patches for Rock and Funk Music</h4> If the song is a Rock or Funk track you will generally use an Organ/Fender Rhodes patch. The reason for this is that the sound cuts through the distorted guitar and also adds depth to the track.
<h4>Less is More</h4> The most important thing to remember is not to play too much. The most convincing keys player is someone who considers the most appropriate points to play. Also do not be tempted to play with both hands all the time. Consider what register needs filling in with the band. It will often be just the right hand or left hand separately. <br />
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Here are some ideas:
<h4>Improvisation Idea 1: Riff</h4> If the band is playing a solid riff you might consider doubling it. A very effective technique is playing in unison at the double octave (right hand two octaves apart from the left). This achieves the weight of the lower part and the upper part cuts through the band and adds character. <br />
<br />
Examples of this can be found in these Keyboard tracks:<br />
<br />
<h4>'Download' at Grade 3</h4><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=253"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=254" align="left" title="Click to view larger image" style="width: 456px;height: 204px;padding-right:2px;" /></a>
<div style="clear:both;"></div> <em>(Click to view larger image)</em>
<div style="clear:both;"></div>
<h4>'Let it Go' at Grade 4</h4><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=256"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=257" align="left" title="Click to view sample" style="width: 456px;height: 204px;padding-right:2px;" /></a>
<div style="clear:both;"></div> <em>(Click to view larger image)</em>
<div style="clear:both;"></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/-QQdYqXZm48" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=66English Bacc Music GCSE Warninghttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/VZnbpfWL1jg/newsarticle.aspx<em>By Sean Coughlan<br />
</em>BBC News education correspondent<br />
<br />
It could become &quot;impossible&quot; for young people in England to study music GCSE, if the English Baccalaureate is kept in its current form, a professional body for musicians says. <br />
<br />
Music is not included in the proposed English Bacc list of GCSE subjects, and the Incorporated Society of Musicians is writing to the schools minister to say teachers are reporting the subject is being <span style="font-weight: bold; ">&quot;squeezed out&quot;</span>. <br />
<br />
An education department spokesman said funding for music was being protected.A final decision on the shape of the English Bacc, for the 2012 league tables, is expected from ministers in the next few weeks. But Incorporated Society of Musicians chief executive Deborah Annetts said teachers had already reported a drop in pupils taking music GCSE and one school where it was no longer on the curriculum. <br />
<br />
The English Bacc sets out the subjects on which league tables will be based showing how many pupils achieve at least a C grade.The subjects proposed by the government are English, maths, two sciences, an ancient or modern language and either history or geography. But critics say this will undermine the teaching of other subjects and limit the choices for GCSE. <br />
<br />
<em>&quot;Without music GCSE being given the weighting it deserves, our cultural and creative economy will be put at risk, and young people who want to be involved in the music sector will have their efforts hampered,&quot;</em> said Ms Annetts. <br />
<br />
<em>&quot;The government is setting England up for an almighty shock in the future if they continue this policy - let alone the impact it is already having on young people who want to study music.&quot;</em> <br />
<br />
There have also been protests about the absence of religious education and economics from the list and concerns schools will prevent pupils taking both history and geography, when only one will appear in the league-table results. A Department for Education spokesman rejected the suggestion that music in school was not being supported. <br />
<br />
<em>&quot;We've actually protected &#163;82.5m funding for music services this year and are reforming the system so money is targeted where it is needed most in future. We're recruiting top music graduates and performers into the profession through Teach First and will launch a National Plan for Music Education later this year - to close the 'musical divide' between rich and poor.&quot;</em> <br />
<br />
And he said that it was up to schools how they responded to the English Bacc. <br />
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<em>&quot;The ball is in schools' court over how they structure their curriculum and best meet pupils' needs. The number of EBacc subjects has been kept deliberately small - leaving plenty of lesson time to offer other valuable academic and non-academic qualifications, like music and RE.&quot;</em><br />
<br />
On Monday Schools Minister Nick Gibb told the House of Commons the English Bacc would add to the quality of information available and help ensure more children take core academic subjects. <br />
<br />
<em>&quot;The English Baccalaureate is not prescriptive. It is just a measure, one of many measures, that this government are putting forward as part of the transparency agenda,&quot;<em> he said. <em>&quot;It is the next stage in that school's improved performance. It is a concern to the government that children, particularly in deprived areas, are not being offered that combination of choices.&quot;</em></em></em><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/VZnbpfWL1jg" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=76Competition: Win 2 Tickets To Download Festival With Hot Rock Drumshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/2jYWX3RNOzM/newsarticle.aspx<h3>Hot Rock Drums Grades 4 &amp; 5 Pre-order now!</h3><a href="http://www.musicroom.com/Flashsale.aspx?offer=109"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=268" align="left" title="More info" href="http://www.musicroom.com/Flashsale.aspx?offer=109" style="width: 296px;height: 180px;padding-right:15px;" /></a> To celebrate Hot Rock Drums Grades 4 &amp; 5 being available for pre-order we are giving away two, three day festival tickets (Inc camping) to <a href="http://www.downloadfestival.co.uk/2011/index.aspx" target="_blank">Download festival</a> at Donington Park, East Midlands - 10th, 11th &amp; 12th of June 2011. Headliners include: Def Leppard, System Of A Down and Linkin Park. <br />
<br />
Hot Rock Drums Grades 4 &amp; 5 are about playing the music <strong>you love</strong>. Each book contains 8 classic rock tracks with a specially edited exam piece and full transcription for each tune. Rockschool Graded Music Exams have an element of '<a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/gradedmusicexams/additionalinformation/resources/freechoicepieces/" target="_blank">Free Choice</a>' you can choose any of the 8 tracks to play in your exam or simply play them for fun!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Grades 4 &amp; 5 follow on from <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/Search/Find.aspx?searchtext=hot+rock+drums" target="_blank">Hot Rock Drums Grades 1, 2 &amp; 3</a> with all the same great features including; Fact files, Walkthroughs, full transcriptions &amp; 2 CD&#8217;s with full &amp; backing track versions, with click. Hot Rock Drums is an essential addition to any drummer wanting to sit a Rockschool exam. <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/Flashsale.aspx?offer=109" target="_blank">View books </a><http: www.musicroom.com="" flashsale.aspx?offer="109">
<h3>The Prize</h3><a id="hypWebsite" href="http://goo.gl/maps/lgst" target="_blank">Download festival</a>&nbsp;<img id="imgWebsitePopup" class="PopupIcon" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/PopupIcon.png" alt="Open link in new window." style="border-width:0px;" /> is at Donington Park, East Midlands <br />
10th &#8211; 12th June 2011. The prize is for two, three day festival tickets only (including camping). You need to be 16+ years to enter this competition; if you are under 18 years old you will need to have permission from a parent to receive the tickets. The prize is for 2 tickets to the festival only.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/competitions/201105/" target="_self">Enter&nbsp;Now</a></http:><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/2jYWX3RNOzM" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=75HOT ROCK DRUMS GRADE 5 - Pre-order from the 23rd Mayhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/h6HG1lGntDY/newsarticle.aspx<strong>Hot Rock Drums Grade 5 is available for pre-order from the 23rd May from <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/Flashsale.aspx?offer=109" target="_blank">Musicroom.com</a> and is released on the 10th June. Check out all the drummers and tracks below!<br />
<br />
</strong>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; text-align: center; "></p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; text-align: center; "><span style="font-weight: bold; ">8 classic rock songs. 2 versions of each track. 1 massive book.</span> </p><br />
Hot Rock Drums Grade 5 are perfect for Rockschool <a are="" perfect="" for="" rockschool="" free="" choice="" pieces,="" gcse="" music="" and="" playing="" fun!="" is="" about="" the="" styles="" of="" you="" enjoy.="" hot="" rock="" series="" graded="" drum="" tracks="" feature="" 8="" classic="" songshref="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/gradedmusicexams/additionalinformation/resources/freechoicepieces/" target="_blank" href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/gradedmusicexams/additionalinformation/resources/freechoicepieces/">Free Choice</a> Pieces, GCSE music and playing for fun! Rockschool is about playing the styles of music you enjoy. <br />
<br />
The Hot Rock series of graded drum tracks feature 8 classic rock songs. The exam versions of these tracks can be used for Rockschool Graded Music Exams and the full transcriptions can be used in the performance units for GCSE and A Level. Hot Rock Drums Grade 5 is your essential guide to playing classic rock. Use with Rockschool Drums <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/ID_No/0385314/details.html" target="_blank">Grade 5 book</a> to work towards an exam.
<h4>Hot Rock Drums Grade 5</h4>
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td> <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/Flashsale.aspx?offer=109"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=265" title="Find out more" style="height:275px;width:215px;border-width:0px;margin-top:12px;margin-right:10px; margin-bottom:10px;" /></a> </td>
<td>
<ul>
<li><strong>Cherub Rock</strong> - Smashing Pumpkins </li>Drummer: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jimmy_Chamberlin">Jimmy Chamberlin</a>
<li><strong>Chop Suey!</strong> - System Of A Down&nbsp;</li>Drummer: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Dolmayan">John Dolmayan</a>
<li><strong>Hey Joe</strong> - Jimi Hendrix&nbsp;</li>Drummer: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mitch_Mitchell">Mitch Mitchell</a>
<li><strong>Late In The Evening</strong> - Paul Simon&nbsp; </li> Drummer: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steve_Gadd">Steve Gadd</a>
<li><strong>Master Of Puppets</strong> - Metallica&nbsp;</li>Drummer:&nbsp;<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lars_Ulrich">Lars Ulrich</a>
<li><strong>My Generation</strong> - The Who&nbsp;</li>Drummer:&nbsp;<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keith_moon">Keith Moon</a>
<li><strong>The Number Of The Beast</strong> - Iron Maiden&nbsp; </li>Drummer: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clive_Burr">Clive Burr</a>
<li><strong>The Zephyr Song </strong> - Red Hot Chili Peppers&nbsp;</li>Drummer: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chad_Smith">Chad Smith</a> </ul><strong> <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/Flashsale.aspx?offer=109" target="_self" style="margin-left:20px;">Pre-order from Musicroom.com</a></strong></td>
<td>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lx8kh_Vq1PQ&feature=related">Watch on YouTube</a></li><br />
<li><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CSvFpBOe8eY">Watch on YouTube</a></li><br />
<li><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y_n_P40sEaM&feature=fvwrel">Watch on YouTube</a></li><br />
<li><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HwY77lA-SEk&feature=related">Watch on YouTube</a> </li><br />
<li><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y-1sEcEz0sg&feature=related">Watch on YouTube</a></li><br />
<li><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6eEQ34f3czg&feature=fvwrel">Watch on YouTube</a></li><br />
<li><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jsmcDLDw9iw">Watch on YouTube</a></li><br />
<li><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0fcRa5Z6LmU">Watch on YouTube</a></li><br />
</ul></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <br />
<h4>PLUS</h4>
<ul>
<li><strong>Edited exam versions</strong>&#8211; play your favourite song in your Rockschool exam</li>
<li><strong>Full transcriptions</strong> &#8211; original drum part in full</li>
<li><strong>Fact files</strong>&#8211; band and artist background information with recommended further listening</li>
<li><strong>Walkthroughs</strong>&#8211; Hints and Tips on the tricky sections of the songs </li>
<li><strong>2 CDs with full mixes and backing tracks</strong> &#8211; exam versions and full transcriptions</li> </ul>Rockschool Graded Music Exams are unique in being the only accredited alternative to classical Graded Music Exams. Our grades have an element of <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/gradedmusicexams/additionalinformation/resources/freechoicepieces/" target="_blank">free choice</a> which means you can play your favourite song in your exam. Rockschool grades are accredited by Ofqual, with Grades 6, 7, and 8 worth <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/generalinformation/ucaspoints/" target="_blank">UCAS points</a>.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.musicroom.com/Flashsale.aspx?offer=109" target="_blank">Pre-order from musicroom.com today</a>&nbsp;and get a FREE tips book AND Rockschool bag!&nbsp;<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/h6HG1lGntDY" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=73HOT ROCK DRUMS GRADE 4 - Pre-order from the 23rd Mayhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/UhwEIDjo97A/newsarticle.aspx<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; text-align: center; "></p><strong>&nbsp;Hot Rock Drums Grade 4 is available for pre-order from the 23rd May from </strong><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline; "><a href="http://www.musicroom.com/Flashsale.aspx?offer=109" target="_blank">musicroom.com</a></span></strong><strong> and is released on the 10th June. Check out all the drummers and tracks below!</strong><br />
<br />
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; text-align: center; "><span style="font-weight: bold; ">8 classic rock songs. 2 versions of each track. 1 massive book.</span></p><br />
Hot Rock Drums Grade 4 are perfect for Rockschool <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/gradedmusicexams/additionalinformation/resources/freechoicepieces/" target="_blank">Free Choice Pieces</a>, GCSE music and playing for fun! Rockschool is about playing the styles of music you enjoy.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The Hot Rock series of graded drum tracks feature 8 classic rock songs.&nbsp;The exam versions of these tracks can be used for Rockschool Graded Music Exams and the full transcriptions can be used in the performance units for GCSE and A Level. Hot Rock Drums Grade 4 is your essential guide to playing classic rock. Use with the Rockschool Drums <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/ID_No/0385313/details.html" target="_blank">Grade 4 book</a> to work towards an exam.
<h4>Hot Rock Drums Grade 4</h4>
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td> <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/Flashsale.aspx?offer=109"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=264" title="Find out more" style="height:275px;width:215px;border-width:0px;margin-top:12px;margin-right:10px; margin-bottom:10px;" /></a> </td>
<td>
<ul>
<li><strong>All My Life</strong> - Foo Fighters </li>Drummer: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taylor_Hawkins">Taylor Hawkins</a>
<li><strong>Californication</strong> - Red Hot Chili Peppers </li>Drummer: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chad_Smith">Chad Smith</a>
<li><strong>Fuel</strong> - Metallica </li>Drummer: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lars_Ulrich">Lars Ulrich</a>
<li><strong>Live And Let Die</strong> - Guns N' Roses</li>Drummer: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matt_Sorum">Matt Sorum</a>
<li><strong>Message In A Bottle </strong> - The Police</li>Drummer: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stewart_Copeland">Stewart Copeland</a>
<li><strong>Paranoid</strong> - Black Sabbath</li>Drummer: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bill_Ward_(musician)">Bill Ward</a>
<li><strong>Sex On Fire </strong> - Kings Of Leon</li>Drummer: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kings_of_Leon">Nathan Followill </a>
<li><strong>Whole Lotta Rosie</strong> - AC/DC</li>Drummer: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phil_Rudd">Phil Rudd</a> </ul> <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/Flashsale.aspx?offer=109" target="_blank" style="margin-left:20px;">Pre-order from musicroom now</a></td>
<td>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xQ04WbgI9rg">Watch on YouTube</a></li><br />
<li><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YlUKcNNmywk">Watch on YouTube</a></li><br />
<li><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qK7q9TRB6Y0">Watch on YouTube</a></li><br />
<li><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6D9vAItORgE">Watch on YouTube</a> </li><br />
<li><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIAyIYT-vlg&feature=related">Watch on YouTube</a></li><br />
<li><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NZyVZFJGX5g&feature=related">Watch on YouTube</a></li><br />
<li><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RF0HhrwIwp0">Watch on YouTube</a></li><br />
<li><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6RQUth4uH7A">Watch on YouTube</a></li><br />
</ul></td></tr> </tbody></table>
<h4> PLUS</h4>
<ul>
<li><strong>Edited exam versions&nbsp;</strong>&#8211; play your favourite song in your Rockschool exam</li>
<li><strong>Full transcriptions</strong> &#8211; original drum part in full</li>
<li><strong>Fact files&nbsp;</strong>&#8211; band and artist background information with recommended further listening</li>
<li><strong>Walkthroughs</strong>&#8211; Hints and Tips on the tricky sections of the songs </li>
<li><strong>2 CDs with full mixes and backing tracks</strong> &#8211; exam versions and full transcriptions</li> </ul>Rockschool Graded Music Exams are unique in being the only accredited alternative to classical Graded Music Exams. Our grades have an element of <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/gradedmusicexams/additionalinformation/resources/freechoicepieces/" target="_blank">free choice</a> which means you can play your favourite song in your exam. Rockschool grades are accredited by Ofqual, with Grades 6, 7, and 8 worth <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/generalinformation/ucaspoints/" target="_blank">UCAS points</a>.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.musicroom.com/Flashsale.aspx?offer=109" target="_blank">Pre-order from musicroom.com now</a>&nbsp;and get a FREE tips book &amp; Rockschool bag!&nbsp;<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/UhwEIDjo97A" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=74Music Tourism Boosts UK Economyhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/0Xf6zoP_YcY/newsarticle.aspxWith UK Music publishing its report <a href="http://www.ukmusic.org/news/post/147-music-tourists-contribute-at-least-864m-a-year-to-the-uk-economy">'Destination: Music'</a> today we take a look into the effect that music tourism has on the UK economy.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.ukmusic.org/">UK Music</a>&nbsp;have estimated music&nbsp;tourism in the UK&nbsp;contributes well over &#163;864m a year to the UK economy with nearly 8 million people spending &#163;1.4bn on festivals and visits to iconic sites such as the zebra crossing from the Beatles Abbey Road album cover (below).&nbsp;<br />
<div style="clear:both;"></div> <br />
<a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/music/2011/may/16/uk-music-tourism-billion-economy"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=263" align="left" title="Click to view the original article" href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/music/2011/may/16/uk-music-tourism-billion-economy" style="width: 270px;height: 167px;padding-right:5px;padding-left:5px;padding-above:5px;padding-below:5px" /></a><em>Photograph: Felix Clay<br />
</em><br />
In an interview with the <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/music/2011/may/16/uk-music-tourism-billion-economy">guardian.co.uk</a> Feargal Sharkey, the former lead singer of the Undertones and now chief executive of UK Music, said the report should be an &quot;eye-opener for the government.&quot;&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<em>&quot;We are talking about &#163;1.4bn that had never been measured and no one knew was there &#8211; the scale of it is colossal,&quot; he said. &quot;What other industry apart from music has the power to transform an utterly mundane pedestrian crossing in north London to an international tourist spot?&quot;</em>&nbsp;(referring to the zebra crossing immortalised by the Abbey Road album cover) &nbsp;<br />
<br />
Music has become a central part of the UK economy and vital to the&nbsp;governments&nbsp;plans for economic re-structure. Sharkey went on to say;&nbsp;<br />
<em><br />
&quot;If music isn't put at the heart of this then everybody is really missing a trick,&quot; said Sharkey. &quot;Because this extraordinary little thing called music, which we are so good at, is bringing people to this country.&quot;</em> <br />
<br />
Further on in the report, even less than idyllic venues such as the Salford Lads club in Manchester (that features on the sleeve of the Smiths album 'The Queen is Dead) were said to still&nbsp;attract music fans. &nbsp;<br />
<br />
<em>&quot;For music fans, going to the Salford Lads Club might be just as important as a visit to Buckingham Palace and Stonehenge. We are seen as a destination for music lovers and we should be proud of that.&quot;</em> <br />
<br />
Also yearly events like, Radio 1's Big weekend in Carlisle have the ability to put relatively unknown towns on the map with huge headlining artists like the Foo Fighters and Lady Gaga drawing in thousands. &nbsp;<br />
<br />
<em>&quot;It's amazing, it has made people realise where Carlisle is and has brought all sorts of business to the area,&quot;</em>&nbsp;said Sheila Fisher of the city's tourist board.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The report stated that the&nbsp;equivalent&nbsp;of&nbsp;19,700 full -time jobs were created by music tourism in the UK. More comically these include food distributors such David Nye of 'the sausage company' who sells around 41 miles worth of sausages at music festivals and employs 20 students who host their own sausage eating competitions to keep waiting customers entertained. <br />
<br />
Look out for this if you're heading to any UK festivals this year!&nbsp;<i><br />
</i><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/0Xf6zoP_YcY" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=71Boris Johnson Launches New Fund For Music Educationhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/w6TtknBkVtc/newsarticle.aspx<em>By Robert Ashton - Music Week</em> <br />
<br />
<strong>Boris Johnson has launched a new music charity, which will raise &#163;2m by March next year to boost music education for children in London.</strong> <br />
<br />
The Mayor of London&#8217;s Fund for Young Musicians charity will provide children, aged 7-11 years old, who have significant musical talent and commitment with new opportunities to learn. Four hundred children across 33 London boroughs will be awarded music scholarships and will be selected on the basis of commitment, talent and financial need. <br />
<br />
The four-year scholarships will provide those selected with an outstanding chance to progress their music education, with small group instrumental tuition, access to instruments and Saturday music school, individual mentoring and regular performances. <br />
<br />
There will also be the opportunity for around 10,000 children, up to the age of 18, to enhance their music education by working alongside professional musicians. Johnson said, <br />
<br />
<em>&quot;Music can transform the lives of young people. If a young Londoner has a talent for music and the commitment to progress, I want them to be able to do so regardless of their starting point.&quot;</em><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/w6TtknBkVtc" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=70Your Top Drum Tipshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/Lxx83syhR_0/newsarticle.aspx<a href="https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150169933726665"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=236" align="left" title="Click to view our facebook notes page" href="https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150169933726665" style="width: 70px;height: 70px;padding-right:2px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<strong>We asked you to suggest some of your Top Drum Tips &#8211; here are some of the best.&nbsp;If you'd like to suggest a tip for playing the drums don't be shy, make your way to our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150169933726665">facebook notes page</a> now.</strong> <br />
<br />
<br />
1.<em>&quot;Practice muscle building exercises regularly, try bass drum quavers to a click at 100bpm and gradually try faster speeds until you can confidently play them at over 150bpm. This will help with many of the faster patterns on rock songs such as Iron Maiden without needing a double bass drum pedal, and of course always get a good teacher.&quot;</em>&nbsp;-&nbsp;<strong>P. Davies</strong><br />
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2.<em>&quot;Get a good teacher who will teach you how to read the music, play musically with dynamics &amp; phrasing and not just say - copy me.&quot; -&nbsp;</em><strong>B. Yates</strong><br />
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3.<em>&quot;There are many grips and approaches to playing, be open to them all, some are better for certain things while others are better for different playing situations. Don't be judgmental or think there is only one way to play!&quot; -&nbsp;</em><strong>O. Baxendale</strong><br />
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4.<em>&quot;Something that is just as important, PRACTICE as much as you can! Don't over-do it, but try to practice AT LEAST an hour every day.&quot; -&nbsp;</em><strong>B. Bolt</strong><br />
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5.<em>&quot;Count out loud when working on new material also slow things down rather than speeding them up. Slow is the new fast for a solid technique.&quot; -&nbsp;</em><strong>R. Gay</strong><br />
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6.<em>&quot;I'd say learn either the heel/toe or sliding bass drum technique so you can do a quick double kick with the bass drum without having to use a double bass pedal. This helped me out with the 16th note bass drum patterns in the Grade 8 book. &quot; -&nbsp;</em><strong>A. DeAngelis</strong><br />
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7.<em>&quot;It's not what you play, it's knowing what not to play.&quot;</em><strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;- beatsdrumstudio</strong><br />
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8.<em>&quot;Breathe, relax, don't worry about outcomes but focus on the doing.&quot;&nbsp;</em><strong>- N. Phipp</strong><br />
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9.<em>&quot;When playing the crash cymbal, give a kick drum to it as well to give it a deeper, thicker sound.&quot;</em> - <strong>Cameron Griffiths</strong><br />
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10.<em>&quot;Remember the music ALWAYS comes first. I love chops like most drummers but a killer groove will get you the gigs! Chops are great but use them in the correct places - to serve the music!&quot; -&nbsp;</em><strong>O. Baxendale</strong><br />
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<strong>A big thank you to everyone who contributed, and remember keep sharing your tips! Come back next month for your Top Guitar Tips.</strong><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/Lxx83syhR_0" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=64Rockschool Teacher Mike Dolbear & Pink Floyd Offer Prize For Charityhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/rGMOhSeqGzs/newsarticle.aspx<a href="http://www.mi-pro.co.uk/news/32252/Mike-Dolbear-and-Pink-Floyd-offer-prize-for-charity"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=231" align="left" title="Click to view the original article" href="http://www.mi-pro.co.uk/news/32252/Mike-Dolbear-and-Pink-Floyd-offer-prize-for-charity" style="width: 184px;height: 184px;padding-right:0px;" /></a><strong>Rockschool Drum teacher and website founder offers Nick Mason-signed cymbal for Teenage Cancer Trust sponsors</strong><br />
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The drummer, drum teacher and founder of the <a href="http://www.mikedolbear.com">Mikedolbear.com</a> website, Mike Dolbear, will be running in the Halstead &amp; Essex half marathon on May 8th in an effort to raise money for the <a href="http://www.teenagecancertrust.org/">Teenage Cancer Trust</a>. <br />
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Keeping things topical, as well as combining his support of the charity and his love of fitness, Dolbear is placing all those that sponsor him in a prize draw, which will see the winner taking away a Paiste 2000 Reflections 14-inch thin crash cymbal, signed by Pink Floyd&#8217;s legendary drummer Nick Mason.<br />
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Dolbear was also involved in the recent Jordan Terris Memorial Drum Festival.<br />
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<em> &quot;Getting to know Jordan's parents, Kevin and Fiona, and watching the Teenage Cancer Trust film</em><em>&nbsp;I wanted to try and do more to help a charity that can't afford TV advertising. I hope to do more of these fund raising events to raise awareness and hopefully raise lots of money.&quot;</em><br />
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Those wishing to sponsor Dolbear (and stand a chance of winning the prize) should go to Mikes <a href="http://www.justgiving.com/Mike-Dolbear">Justgiving page</a> and follow the instructions. Every &#163;2.50 of sponsorship will earn one chance to win, so &#163;25 will earn ten chances. There is no maximum donation. Once Dolbear completes the run, Nick Mason will pull a name out of the hat and the lucky winner will receive the cymbal. The winner will also receive a signed certificate of authenticity and a copy of the 1987 Momentary Lapse of Reason album, on which it was used.<br />
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Keep an eye on <a href="http://www.mikedolbear.com">mikedolbear.com</a> for details of future fund raising events. Information about the Teenage Cancer Trust and its work with young cancer sufferers can be found at the Teenage Cancer Trust <a href="http://www.teenagecancertrust.org/" target="_self">website</a>.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/rGMOhSeqGzs" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=63Music Boosts Brainpower Claims New Studyhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/RnmRTgUp2tI/newsarticle.aspx<a href="http://www.mi-pro.co.uk/news/32254/Music-boosts-brainpower-claims-new-study"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=230" align="left" title="Click to view the original article" href="http://www.mi-pro.co.uk/news/32254/Music-boosts-brainpower-claims-new-study" style="width: 154px;height: 154px;padding-right:15px;" /></a><em>By Adam Savage, mi-pro.co.uk</em><br />
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Older people with musical experience possess better cognitive skills than those without. Researchers at The University of Kansas have revealed that playing a musical instrument at a young age could boost a person's cognitive ability as they get older.<br />
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The team discovered that pensioners from a group of participants who had piano, flute, clarinet or other lessons as a youngster did better on intelligence tests than those without any musical skills. <br />
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The study, published by the American Psychological Association, took on 70 healthy adults aged 60 to 83, who were then divided into groups based on their levels of musical experience.<br />
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The musicians performed better on several cognitive tests than those who had never studied an instrument or learned how to read music.<br />
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While much research has been done on the cognitive benefits of musical activity by children, this is apparently the first study to examine whether those benefits can extend across a lifetime.<br />
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<em>&quot;Musical activity throughout life may serve as a challenging cognitive exercise, making your brain fitter and more capable of accommodating the challenges of ageing,&quot;</em> said Dr Brenda Hanna-Pladdy, lead researcher at the University of Kansas Medical Centre.<br />
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<em>&quot;Since studying an instrument requires years of practice and learning, it may create alternate connections in the brain that could compensate for cognitive declines as we get older.&quot;</em> <br />
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The three groups of study participants included individuals with no musical history; with one to nine years of musical study; or with at least 10 years of musical training.<br />
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All of the musicians were amateurs who began playing an instrument at around 10 years of age. More than half played the piano, while approximately a quarter had studied woodwind instruments and a small percentage had learnt to play a stringed, percussion or brass instrument.<br />
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Those who had studied music for the longest performed the best on the cognitive tests, followed by the low-level musicians and non-musicians.<br />
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The high-level musicians had statistically significant higher scores than the non-musicians on cognitive tests relating to visuospatial memory, naming objects and cognitive flexibility, or the brain's ability to adapt to new information.<br />
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<em>&quot;Based on previous research and our study results, we believe that both the years of musical participation and the age of acquisition are critical,&quot;</em> Dr Hanna-Pladdy said.<br />
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</em>&quot;There are crucial periods in brain plasticity that enhance learning, which may make it easier to learn a musical instrument.&quot; </em><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/RnmRTgUp2tI" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=62Competition: Easter Treasure Hunthttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/6edYoyGErOM/newsarticle.aspxThis Easter we're giving you the chance to WIN a selection of Easter goodies to help you get some practice in over the holidays. There are 3 goodie bags to give away, each bag contains:
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<li>3x Rockschool Grade books of your choice</li>
<li>&#163;25 musicroom.com gift voucher</li>
<li><strong>PLUS&nbsp;</strong>an Easter egg AND chocolate piano wrapped up in your very own Rockschool bag.</li> </ul>Happy Easter!<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/6edYoyGErOM" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=60Competition: Win 2 Tickets To Sonisphere Festival With Hot Rock Guitar: WINNERhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/ckImWqsEIzs/newsarticle.aspx<a href="http://uk.sonispherefestivals.com/"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=229" align="left" title="Sonisphere UK" href="http://uk.sonispherefestivals.com/" style="width: 225px;height: 300px;padding-right:15px;" /></a>A big congratulations to our winner Amy Banfield from south Wales. She will joining the crowds of people heading to Sonisphere this July for what promises to be one of the best line-ups ever!&nbsp;<br />
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For everyone else out there - fear not there will be plenty of chances to win some great Rockschool goodies coming up.&nbsp;<br />
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<div style="clear:both;"></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/ckImWqsEIzs" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=59Labour Launches Major Review Of Music & Creative Sectorshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/LKm4iebjwks/newsarticle.aspx<em>By Robert Ashton - Musicweek</em><br />
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The Labour Party has launched a creative industries policy review which the shadow culture secretary promised would help develop a strong IP culture and an alternative to Government policies he believed are threatening the sector. <br />
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Ivan Lewis told a packed policy launch that he and his team - including shadow culture minister Gloria de Piero - that the present Government risked presiding over a decline in Britain's music and creative industries because there has been no progress on the Digital Economy Bill and cuts in arts and culture.<br />
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<em>&quot;There is real concern our creative industries could suffer a manufacturing-like decline&quot;</em> said Lewis, who has kick started a major review of how his party will support the creative industries. <em>&quot;There are many things the Government has done in the first year that are not constructive (to the sector)&quot;</em> .<br />
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Lewis said he did welcome the recent proposal for a creative industries council, although he questioned whether it would be<em>&quot;meaningful on action or just another talking shop&quot;</em>.<br />
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The shadow culture secretary added, <em>&quot;Will it (the Creative Industries Council) be chaired by powerful people? Will it measure progress and be action orientated? There needs to be a focus on three or four things.&quot;</em><br />
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Lewis said there is a major role for Government in enabling the growth of the creative sector and to ensure that it had the right intellectual property framework, currently being reviewed by Professor Ian Hargreaves.<br />
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<em>&quot;The Government has to make choices that impact on the creative industries. Government has a duty to make choices,&quot; </em>he said. <em>&quot;But if we think we can transform creative industries through Government intervention that is a mistake.&quot;</em><br />
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Lewis and his team will take soundings from the music industry and other sectors, such as film, advertising, education and training, before producing an interim report at the end of June which will then be delivered to the party conference in the autumn.<br />
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However, Lewis expected this would only be the first stage of the major review with another stage -that would be strong on action - following later.<br />
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He added, <em>&quot;Our return to Government will depend on whether we can persuade people we have positive ideas and a compelling vision for the future of our country. Charting a credible and optimistic alternative for the future is essential if we are to re-gain the trust of the mainstream majority. We must be ambitious for our creative industries, not managing decline but ensuring Britain can play to our strengths in this new global digital age.&quot;</em><br />
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The Hargreaves Review of IP was expected to report to Government at the end of this month.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/LKm4iebjwks" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=58NAME Publish National Curriculum Responsehttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/iy1vhT861BI/newsarticle.aspxLast month NAME called for support in its submission to the National Curriculum review. You can now <a href="http://www.name.org.uk/sites/default/files/NAME%20NC%20Review%20Response%20Summary%20April%201_1.pdf">read their response</a> summary here. <br />
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The National Association of Music Educators developed their response in association with over 100 of their members, together with other educational organisation such as the <a href="http://www.mec.org.uk/">Music Education Council</a> and <a href="http://www.thefms.org/">The Federation of Music Services</a>, fighting to keep music within the National Curriculum. <br />
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The focus at this stage in the government's consultation is to establish the subjects that should be in the new National Curriculum. The purpose of NAME's submission - and those of anyone interested in music &#8211; should be to secure the place of music within the set curriculum. If you wish to make your own submission, you can access the form on the <a href="http://www.education.gov.uk/consultations/index.cfm?action=consultationDetails&consultationId=1730&external=no&menu=1">Department For Education website</a>. <br />
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Please note that the deadline for all submissions is Thursday, 14th April 2011<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/iy1vhT861BI" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=575 Top Tips To Improve Your Singinghttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/ZGwJkDBfISw/newsarticle.aspx<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=219" align="left" style="width: 411px;height: 82px;padding-right:15px;" />
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Following on from our '5 Top Tips series' we give you some our best tips to improve your singing! &nbsp;<br />
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<h4>1. Always warm up</h4> As with any muscle, it's absolutely vital to warm your voice up before singing &#8211; launching straight into a power ballad without a warm up is a sure-fire way to encourage vocal burn-out , often leading to days of voice recovery. Learn to warm up using different vowel sounds and shapes &#8211; sometimes singing a relatively easy song with a limited range can work in conjunction with a basic warm up &#8211; this can then lead on to the harder songs as the voice begins to get warmer!
<h4>2. Drink lots of fluids</h4> It is so important to drink lots as a vocalist &#8211; there is nothing worse than singing with a dry throat. Drink plenty of room temperature water as it will keep your body hydrated and help to lubricate the larynx. Many professional vocalists also find that fruit juices such as pineapple juice work even better than water as a lubricant. Try to avoid coffee, milk or tea just before singing however!
<h4>3. Develop good singing technique</h4> Get some training!! Most people will go on to uncover their true vocal potential with a bit of coaching. Once you get to grips with breath control, posture, placement and various other techniques you&#8217;ll be better armed to deal with the demands of singing for longer periods of time.
<h4>4. Sing in the bath/shower</h4> It may sound a bit cliche but singing in the bath or shower is highly recommended as the natural reverb found in a bathroom can be a real confidence booster. The lack of soft furnishings to absorb the sound (such as carpet and curtains) makes for greater resonance and allows your voice to feel more powerful - you may find you don't have to try as hard to get to the top notes!!
<h4>5. Sing as often as you can</h4> There is no substitute for singing everyday &#8211; this will strengthen your voice and build greater confidence in your ability. The voice is a muscle and needs to be used &#8211; so sing whenever you get a chance!! Remember though - no singer is a machine &#8211; if you feel your voice getting tired &#8211; give it a rest!<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/ZGwJkDBfISw" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=56Hot Rock Guitar - Behind The Sceneshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/GFvSSGlDpgg/newsarticle.aspxWith Hot Rock Guitar released on the 18th March we give you a 60 second behind the scenes look into how it was made.<br />
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<a href="http://www.musicroom.com/Search/Find.aspx?searchtext=Rockschool%3a+Hot+Rock+Guitar"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=197" align="left" title="Click to view Hot Rock Grades 1, 2 & 3" href="http://www.musicroom.com/Search/Find.aspx?searchtext=Rockschool%3a+Hot+Rock+Guitar" style="width: 380px;height: 160px;padding-right:15px;" /></a>
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<em>Hi James! Rockschool has some questions for you...</em>&nbsp;<br />
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<h4>Q. What are the benefits of choosing a free choice piece from The Hot Rock Guitar books?</h4><strong>A.&nbsp;</strong>The Hot Rock books have been prepared to the existing Rockschool syllabus, so if you select our Grade 1 arrangement of &#8216;The Zephyr Song&#8217; for your Grade 1 exam it&#8217;s definitely the right level and you have the audio backing already prepared.<br />
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<h4>Q. What makes Hot Rock Guitar a special edition to the Rockschool syllabus?</h4><span style="font-weight: bold; ">A.</span> These are great tracks that have stood the test of time over the years and are still popular with guitarists everywhere. The fact that you can now play them in a graded exam is great news for guitarists.<br />
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<h4>Q. What can students expect to learn when playing through the pieces?</h4><span style="font-weight: bold; ">A.</span> Like all of the Rockschool pieces there are opportunities to develop your technique. Powerchords and single note riffs feature heavily through the three books and there&#8217;s plenty of string bending to work on in Grades 2 and 3.<br />
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<h3>Grade 1 Samples</h3>
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<td style="width:33%"><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=209"><img id="imgHotRockGuitarG1Sample01small" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=209" title="Click to view a larger image" style="width:165px;height:216px;" /></a></td>
<td style="width:34%"><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=210"><img id="imgHotRockGuitarG1Sample02small" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=210" title="Click to view a larger image" style="width:165px;height:216px;" /></a></td>
<td style="width:33%"><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=211"><img id="imgHotRockGuitarG1Sampe03small" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=211" title="Click to view a larger image" style="width:165px;height:216px;" /></a></td></tr></tbody></table><br />
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<h4>Q. What thought process went into choosing the 24 tracks?</h4><span style="font-weight: bold; ">A.</span> We picked absolute classics that guitarists LOVE to play. After that it was a case of deciding which songs worked best in which grade. It was important that we stayed true to the spirit of the original. <br />
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<h4>Q. How much time went into selecting &amp; recording the 24 tunes?</h4><span style="font-weight: bold; ">A.</span> It was a long process. We spent a few months selecting and arranging the songs and then the whole recording process took about eight weeks altogether: it was a big task. <br />
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<h4>Q. Which was your favourite part of the Hot Rock Guitar Process?</h4><span style="font-weight: bold; ">A.</span> The end! Seriously, I think seeing everything completed: the arrangements, the walkthroughs, the tone guides and the monstrous full transcriptions brought about a warm, fuzzy feeling. It&#8217;s a great package that I&#8217;m really proud of.<br />
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<h3>Grade 2 Samples</h3>
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<td style="width:33%"><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=212"><img id="imgHotRockGuitarG2Sample01" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=212" title="Click to view a larger image" style="width:165px;height:216px;" /></a></td>
<td style="width:34%"><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=213"><img id="imgHotRockGuitarG2Sample02" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=213" title="Click to view a larger image" style="width:165px;height:216px;" /></a></td>
<td style="width:33%"><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=214"><img id="imgHotRockGuitarG2Sample03" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=214" title="Click to view a larger image" style="width:165px;height:216px;" /></a></td></tr></tbody></table><br />
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<h4>Q. The introduction to tone addition to the Hot Rock books, how will this aid the students learning when playing the tunes?</h4><span style="font-weight: bold; ">A.</span> Guitar tone is big part of guitar performances, but it&#8217;s also one of the most confusing. There are so many different terms for things like amp controls and pickups that we felt we needed to demystify a lot of it. The guides are very simple and, although there&#8217;s no tone requirement in Grades 1 and 2, guitarists who want to improve their tone will find this helps a lot. <br />
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<h4>Q. What research went into writing the Fact files section - Did you find out any crazy facts about some of artists?</h4><span style="font-weight: bold; ">A.</span> Well, I pride myself on not having to resort to Wikipedia. I&#8217;ve interviewed a lot of guitarists over the years and know way too much about the histories of a lot of the classic rock bands out there. However, it did surprise me to learn that The Raconteurs are actually called The Saboteurs in Australia! True FACT!<br />
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<h4>Q. Why did you include the Vocal line in the full transcriptions?</h4><span style="font-weight: bold; ">A.</span> Guitar transcriptions can be quite long with lots of guitar parts, so the vocals can help you navigate a challenging piece.<br />
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<h3>Grade 3 Samples</h3>
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<td style="width:33%"><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=215"><img id="imgHotRockGuitarG3Sample01" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=215" title="Click to view a larger image" style="width:165px;height:216px;" /></a></td>
<td style="width:34%"><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=216"><img id="imgHotRockGuitarG3Sample02" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=216" title="Click to view a larger image" style="width:165px;height:216px;" /></a></td>
<td style="width:33%"><a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=217"><img id="imgHotRockGuitarG3Sample03" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=217" title="Click to view a larger image" style="width:165px;height:216px;" /></a></td></tr></tbody></table> <br />
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<h4>Q. Is it difficult writing the walkthroughs? What goes into them?</h4><span style="font-weight: bold; ">A.</span> I don't find it too difficult. I taught for 17 years before I came to work for Rockschool so over the years I&#8217;ve learned which techniques students struggle with, so I target those. The tricky part is fitting everything in.<br />
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<h4>Q. What were your favourite tracks to record/play?</h4><span style="font-weight: bold; ">A.</span> I'm a metal guy, so I'd have to say it was &#8216;Enter Sandman&#8217;. It has such an awesome riff, you can really get stuck into it &#8211; Especially the palm muted sections. &#8216;Highway To Hell&#8217; has a great solo and the exam version is pretty close to the start of the original, so that&#8217;s a lot of fun. I also loved playing Californication. Such a great riff.<br />
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<em>Thank you for your time Mr.Uings!</em><br />
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<strong>If you'd like to read more from James you can catch him every month in our Rockschool <a href="http://www.musicradar.com/totalguitar">Total Guitar feature</a>. </strong><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/GFvSSGlDpgg" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=50The IGF Festival and Summer School - 23 July - 5 Aug 2011http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/YNFx3CPDIZI/newsarticle.aspx<a href="http://www.igf.org.uk/International_Guitar_Foundation/Summer_School.html"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=206" align="left" title="Click to open the IGF website" href="http://www.igf.org.uk/International_Guitar_Foundation/Summer_School.html" style="width: 299px;height: 93px;padding-right:15px;" /></a>The International Guitar Foundation festival and summer school returns to Cheltenham this July and August for what organisers promise will be two weeks of non-stop guitar action. <br />
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The summer school features some of the best players and tutors around with backgrounds spanning a range of different styles from <a href="http://www.igf.org.uk/International_Guitar_Foundation/Rock.html">rock</a>, metal and blues through to funk, jazz, fingerstyle and even classical.<br />
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All levels and ages are catered for, Co founder and festival manager Phil Castang told us &quot;The summer school is for young players determined to be the best they can and also for mature players to rediscover their strengths. Essentially the summer school is for anyone that loves to play guitar&quot;. <br />
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Heading up the <a href="http://www.igf.org.uk/International_Guitar_Foundation/Rock.html">'High Voltage Rock Academy'</a> are rock and metal virtuosos Martin Goulding and Andy James. Blues and slide 'Yoda' Matt Smith joins Denny Ilett and acoustic blues specialist Johnny Dickinson on the <a href="http://www.igf.org.uk/International_Guitar_Foundation/Blues.html">blues faculty</a>. Dario Cortese is back by popular demand to teach <a href="http://www.igf.org.uk/International_Guitar_Foundation/Jazz_%26_Beyond.html">'Jazz and Beyond'</a>.<br />
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Progressive fingerstyle is hosted by modern fingerstyle exponent Rodney Branigan and features a rare teaching appearance from Andy McKee. Jason Sidwell brings the <a href="http://www.igf.org.uk/International_Guitar_Foundation/Funk_%26_Beyond.html">funk to funk </a>and beyond whilst Neville Marten's famous <a href="http://www.igf.org.uk/International_Guitar_Foundation/Mojo.html">'Mojo'</a> reforms for a series of unique performance based workshops.<br />
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The week also features concerts, clinics and late night jam sessions and has become one of the guitar calendars must attend social and networking events of the year.
<h4>Watch the IGF Summer School Trailer below:</h4> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_3-L6o4yHf4&feature=player_embedded"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=208" align="left" title="Click to watch the IGF Summer School Trailer" href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_3-L6o4yHf4&feature=player_embedded" style="width:360px;height: 306px;padding-right:15px;" /></a>
<div style="clear:both;"></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/YNFx3CPDIZI" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=55PRS For Music Looks To Encourage Female Composershttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/RkaxD5MSZng/newsarticle.aspx<a href="http://www.prsformusicfoundation.com/"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=200" align="left" title="Click to visit the PRS site" href="http://www.prsformusicfoundation.com/" style="width: 194px;height: 170px;padding-right:15px;" /></a><strong><a href="http://www.prsformusicfoundation.com/" target="_self">PRS for Music Foundation</a> have launched a new campaign aimed at increasing the number of working female composers.</strong><br />
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The body hopes that the initiative, which was launched to coincide with International Women&#8217;s Day, will raise awareness of the gender gap that currently exists in the industry.It is also hoped that the campaign will help to boost the profiles of women composers.<br />
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Recent research has highlighted the gender divide that currently exists in the industry, with just 4.1 per cent of works performed at the 2010 BBC Proms were composed by women. In addition, the PRS for Music membership is currently only 14 per cent women.<br />
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<a href="http://www.prsformusicfoundation.com/"> <br />
<br />
PRS for Music Foundation</a>, who are behind the initiative, is inviting musical bodies across the UK to propose the commission of work by a female composer. Financial support of &#163;5,000 will be made available for new compositions of any musical genre.<br />
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Sally Taylor, the chair of trustees at the body, said: &quot;We have created this call because we want to raise awareness about the funding we offer to music creators and encourage more women to come forward for this support. By promoting role models for future generations, we hope that we will be encouraging more women to think about making a living as a music creator.&quot;<br />
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Prospective artists have been told that there are deadlines for this opportunity on May 13th and August 8th 2011.<br />
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Emily Hall, whose song Cycle written for Mara Carlyle will be premiered during the Women of the World Festival, said: <br />
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&quot;The Women Make Music call will be a great way of drawing attention to the support that is available from PRS for Music Foundation and I hope it inspires other women to think about applying.&#8221;</em><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/RkaxD5MSZng" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=53UK Government Plans To Engage With Music and Creativeshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/tW1dIR2hc9g/newsarticle.aspx<em>By Robert Ashton - music week</em><br/><br/>
<strong>A meeting between Government and the music and creative industries to discuss how ministers can engage with the sector took a step closer to creating a creative industries council – or something similar.</strong><br/><br/>
Yesterday's sitdown at the Department for Business Innovation and Skills saw Culture Secretary Jeremy Hunt, Culture Minister Ed Vaizey and Business Secretary Vince Cable canvassing senior executives from the creative industries, including BPI chief executive Geoff Taylor and UK Music chief executive Feargal Sharkey, about what channels of communication would be most effective.<br/><br/>
A DCMS spokesperson said, <em>“It was a useful and productive meeting"</em>. One of the main purposes of the roundtable was to discuss how the Government can effectively engage with this important sector.<br/><br/>
<em>“It was agreed there was value in Government meeting with the creative industries as a whole to discuss specific issues affecting the whole sector.”</em><br/><br/>
The high powered roundtable - other executives invited included BBC director general Mark Thompson and Google UK managing director Matt Brittin - was expected to meet again in three months time.<br/><br/>
One insider said that although there was no concrete proposals made yesterday there was a consensus that the Government might be served better if – on issues where there was common ground - it engaged with the creative industries as one group.<br/><br/>
An industry council to serve the creative sector has gathered widespread support from a range of executives and ministers, including the House of Commons BIS committee investigating how to provide assistance to the cultural sector.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/tW1dIR2hc9g" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=52Total Guitar – Rockschool Student Receives Grade One Merithttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/E0AtHhbt7BA/newsarticle.aspx<a href="http://www.musicradar.com/totalguitar"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=192" align="left" title="Click to open the Total Guitar website" href="http://www.musicradar.com/totalguitar" style="width: 168px;height: 228px;padding-right:15px;" /></a>If you don't already know Rockschool have a monthly column in legendary guitar magazine <a href="http://www.musicradar.com/totalguitar">Total Guitar</a>. There you can find specific track breakdowns for some of Rockschool's best tunes as well as some great examples to help you improve your playing. <br />
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Tony Aspinal, Lancashire wrote into Total Guitar on behalf of his son to express his fondness and gratitude for the Rockschool column:<br />
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<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=TotalGuitarLetters">Total Guitar Letters Page</a></strong><br />
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<h3>Making the Grade</h3><em>&#8220;I have been subscribing to TG for about three years and would encourage anyone to do the same. TG has helped me to improve my playing, build my own guitar and given me perspective when work gets hectic. Also TG has got me out of the house at the weekends as I&#8217;m now in a gigging band.<br />
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However, the real reason I&#8217;m writing is my son, aged eight, has started playing and has recently achieved a merit in his Rockschool Grade One. <br />
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Thanks to your coverage of Rockschool Grade Two he&#8217;s getting ready for his next exam in March. I know that as he gets older and things change we will always have guitar in common. Has it been worth subscribing? It&#8217;s an absolute bargain!&#8221;</em><br />
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<strong>Tony Aspinall, Lancashire</strong><br />
PS, here&#8217;s a picture of Alex (with the Tele I built in the background).<br />
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<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=191" align="left" title="ToalGuitarAlexBeams" style="width: 325px;height: 200px;padding-right:15px;" />
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<div style="clear:both;"></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/E0AtHhbt7BA" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=48Competition: Win 2 Tickets To Sonisphere Festival With Hot Rock Guitarhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/c89kDIaABBk/newsarticle.aspx<h3>Hot Rock Guitar Grades 1, 2 &amp; 3 Out 18 March</h3><a href="http://www.musicroom.com/Search/Find.aspx?searchtext=Rockschool%3a+Hot+Rock+Guitar"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=197" align="left" title="Click to view Hot Rock Grades 1, 2 & 3" href="http://www.musicroom.com/Search/Find.aspx?searchtext=Rockschool%3a+Hot+Rock+Guitar" style="width: 380px;height: 160px;padding-right:15px;" /></a>To celebrate the release of Hot Rock Guitar Grade 1, 2 and Grade 3 we are giving away two, three day festival tickets (inc camping) to <a href="http://uk.sonispherefestivals.com/">SONISPHERE</a> at Knebworth House, Stevenage. 8th-10th July 2011. Headliners include: Metallica, Biffy Clyro and SlipKnot.<br />
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The Hot Rock Guitar series is about playing the music <span style="font-weight: bold; ">you love</span>. Each book contains 8 classic rock tracks with the specially edited exam piece and the full transcription. Rockschool graded music exams have an element of <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/gradedmusicexams/additionalinformation/resources/freechoicepieces/">'Free Choice'</a>. <br />
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Out of the three exam pieces the candidate has to prepare for a Rockschool grade exam, one can be a <a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/gradedmusicexams/additionalinformation/resources/freechoicepieces/">'Free Choice'</a> piece - a song of the candidates choosing &#8211; this is where Hot Rock comes in. Popular classic rock songs organised by grade and edited to create an exam piece, the books also contain the full transcription.
<h3>The Prize</h3>Sonisphere festival is at Knebworth House, Stevenage 8th-10th July 2011. The prize is for two, three day festival tickets only (Inc camping). You need to be 16+ years to enter this competition; if you are under 18 years old you will need to have permission from a parent to receive the tickets.<br />
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The prize is for <strong>2 tickets</strong> to the festival only.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/competitions/201103/">Enter the competition now</a><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/c89kDIaABBk" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=49UK Music Welcomes Government Support For Live Music Billhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/dHgNB56MLAk/newsarticle.aspx<em>By Robert Ashton &#8211; musicweek</em><br />
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<strong>UK Music has welcomed Government support for Lord Clement-Jones&#8217; Live Music Bill following its successful second reading in the House of Lords last Friday.</strong><br />
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Baroness Rawlings gave the Government&#8217;s blessing to the Bill during Friday&#8217;s reading - subject to certain conditions, including a full impact assessment before proposals could become law and an 11pm cut-off time for performances. UK Music CEO Feargal Sharkey, who has campaigned for small venues to be exempted from the Licensing Act for several years, said: <br />
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<em>&quot;I think the entire music industry will want to show its gratitude to Lord Clement-Jones for his perseverance and support. Cutting red tape around the performance of small-scale live music will have a major impact on the careers of fledgling artists and jobbing musicians.&quot;</em>;<br />
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<em>&quot;With Government now openly supporting the common sense measures in this Bill, there is growing confidence that we can move quickly forward to unshackle and promote one of this country&#8217;s greatest and most identifiable assets.&quot;</em><br />
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The private members Bill, which seeks to exempt small venues from the need to obtain a licence for the performance of live music if there is only an audience of 200 people, and was supported by peers from across the political spectrum, including Michael Grade, Joan Bakewell and Floella Benjamin.The Bill will now advance to Committee stage in the Lords, where amendments can be made, before it can move to the House of Commons where it will need to be sponsored by an MP.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/dHgNB56MLAk" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=47Lord Grade To Support Live Music Billhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/4qwgPVKtR20/newsarticle.aspx<em>By Robert Ashton - Music Week</em><br />
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Michael Grade will use his maiden speech in the House of Lords this Friday to support Tim Clement-Jones&#8217; Live Music Bill.The private members Bill has moved up the pecking order on the list of debates and was expected to get its second reading at around 10.30am. <br />
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Alongside Lord Grade of Yarmouth, Clement-Jones was also expected to get support from former Playschool presenter Floella Benjamin &#8211; now Baroness Benjamin of Beckenham - and campaigning journalist Baroness Joan Bakewell.<br />
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Tom Kiehl, policy advisor for the Lib Dem Lords, said the former BBC chairman and ITV executive chairman Lord Grade was understood to want to use his speech to help the Live Music Bill, which has proposed an exception from the bureaucracy of the Licensing Act for music venues hosting gigs for bands with audiences of 200 people or less.<br />
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<em>&#8220;He is going to talk about it and also dwell a bit on his career,&#8221; </em>said Kiehl. But, the policy advisor was unsure what the Government proposed to say about the Bill, which had its first reading in the House of Lords last July. At the end of 2009 the Government conducted its own consultation about small venues with audiences of less than 100 people. But, the Tourism and Heritage Minister John Penrose, who has responsibility for licensing matters, has subsequently sat on the findings despite telling Parliament in June he was committed to moving fast on the matter.<br />
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Other Lords expected to contribute to Friday&#8217;s debate include Lord Redesdale, Lord Colwyn and Lord Teverson. If the Bill passes through this stage it will be moved to the committee stage in the Lords in a few weeks time, where amendments &#8211; either proposed by opponents or Clement-Jones&#8217; himself &#8211; can be debated.<br />
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If that is successful it can pass to a third reading before moving to the Commons where it will have to be sponsored by an MP. It is likely Lib Dem MP Don Foster, who pushed the Bill under the last parliamentary session, would again support it. Kiehl added that unlike the last parliamentary session, this time around the Bill has plenty of time to be debated.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/4qwgPVKtR20" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=46UK Government Round-table On Online Futurehttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/_Q3HFubnp5I/newsarticle.aspx<strong>Culture Ministers met with key players from the music and creative industries on the 22nd Feb to discuss ways to develop new online services.</strong><br />
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Secretary of State for Culture Media and Sport Jeremy Hunt and Communications and Creative Industries Minister Ed Vaizey held the roundtable with internet service providers such as BT, Talk Talk and BSkyB alongside representatives from UK Music, PRS for Music, AIM, BPI, Universal, Warner Music, Sony and Beggars Group.<br />
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Ed Vaizey said the creative industries, ISPs and other companies such as Google and Yahoo were interlinked and need each other for sustainable future success.<br />
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<em>&quot;We have brought the industries together so they can discuss the issues facing the digital industries and I am delighted that progress is being made&quot;;</em> he said. <em>&quot;Consumers demand choice. It is essential that new, legal methods to access films, music and other content on-line are developed, whilst enabling creators copyright to be properly protected.&quot;</em><br />
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Hunt said it was a useful and encouraging meeting. <em>&quot;I am pleased to hear that real progress has been made by ISPs and the music industry on developing new and attractive services for consumers,&quot;</em> he said.<em> &quot;The more choice consumers have, the less attractive the unlawful alternatives will be.&quot;</em>The group will meet again in around three months.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, the Government has cheered the indie community today after it urged the EC to host a forum for small business ministers as part of a renewed focus on putting SMEs at the heart of European decisions. Business and Enterprise Minister Mark Prisk said he looked forward to meeting his European counterparts to discuss issues facing small companies. <br />
<br />
He said,<em>&quot;Europe needs an SME-friendly business environment, enabling small businesses and entrepreneurs to realise their ambitions, without being stifled by unnecessary rules and regulations.&quot;&nbsp;</em>Brussels has been pushing a big agenda for creative SMEs recently because it sees them playing a vital role as engines for growth and jobs.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/_Q3HFubnp5I" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=42Music For Youth – ‘The Sound Vault’http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/rE99moQw39g/newsarticle.aspxAs part of their involvement with young musicians across the country, MFY commissions original compositions. Now they&#8217;re expanding this strand of their activities and sharing the results with you - for free!<br />
<br />
They want to hear your performances and reinterpretations of the scores available. Send in your submission using one of the options on the <a href="http://www.mfy.org.uk/evolve/thesoundvault">Music For Youth website</a>.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/rE99moQw39g" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=43Guitar Techniqueshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/OL7QEm0Uefc/newsarticle.aspx<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=188" align="left" title="Guitar Techniques" style="width: 160px;height: 227px;padding-right:15px;" />Rockschool have a monthly column in Guitar Techniques magazine. It offers advice on scale choices, soloing strategies and many other ways to expand your playing. <br />
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To help you with your studies and to give you a taste of the Rockschool exam pieces you can download the Grade 5 piece 'Bust Up'. To get the other pieces and information on the other sections of the exams you will need Guitar Grade 5 book, available from <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/ID_No/0385296/details.htm">musicroom.com</a>.
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<h4>Resources</h4> The resources you need for the Rockschool Guitar Techniques feature in issue 190 (April Edition) are below:<br />
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<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=RockschoolGuitarGrade5BustUp.pdf">Sheet Music - Grade 5 Guitar - 'Bust Up'</a></strong><br />
(260KB, 3 pages, .pdf)</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<td class="Icon"><img id="ZipIconGuitarGradeThree" class="Zip" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/IconZip.gif" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=RockschoolBustUpBackingTrack.zip">'Bust Up' Audio Remixes</a></strong><br />
(4.2MB, .zip)</td></tr></tbody></table>
<h4>Related Products</h4>
<p>You may find the following books useful for preparing for the guitar grade 5 exam:</p>
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<td> <a id="hypRelatedProductOne" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/clickthrough.ashx?P=6"><img id="imgRelatedProductOne" src="/resources/images/gradedmusicexams/bookcovers/guitar/gradefive.png" alt="Rockschool Guitar - Grade 5" style="height:247px;width:183px;border-width:0px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<span class="BookCoverTitle"> Rockschool Guitar<br />
Grade 5<br />
</span> <br />
<span class="Bold">Price:</span> &#163;14.99<br />
<span class="Bold">Media:</span> Sheet Music and CD<br />
<span class="Bold">Language:</span> English<br />
<a id="hypRelatedProductOneLearnMore" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/clickthrough.ashx?P=6">Learn more...</a><br />
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<td> <a id="hypRelatedProductTwo" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/clickthrough.ashx?P=11"><img id="imgRelatedProductTwo" src="/resources/images/gradedmusicexams/bookcovers/guitar/technicalcompanion.png" alt="Rockschool Guitar - Technical Companion" style="height:246px;width:183px;border-width:0px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<span class="BookCoverTitle"> Rockschool Guitar<br />
Technical Companion<br />
</span> <br />
<span class="Bold">Price:</span> &#163;10.00<br />
<span class="Bold">Media:</span> Sheet Music<br />
<span class="Bold">Language:</span> English<br />
<a id="hypRelatedProductTwoLearnMore" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/clickthrough.ashx?P=11">Learn more...</a><br />
</td> </tr>
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<td colspan="2" class="RelatedProductsFooter"></td> </tr> </tbody></table> </td> </tr></tbody></table><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/OL7QEm0Uefc" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=41Music Education In England - The Darren Henley Reviewhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/97JRaf7kHX0/newsarticle.aspx<a href="http://education.gov.uk/publications/standard/publicationDetail/Page1/DFE-00011-2011"><img align="left" title="Download Darren Henley&#8217;s review on Music Education In England" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=184" complete="complete" style="width: 152px; padding-right: 15px; height: 150px" /></a> With a total of 36 recommendations being made in Darren Henley&#8217;s review of Music Education in England this month, we thought we&#8217;d take the opportunity to express our views and thoughts on the matter as well as taking a look at the government&#8217;s response and future plans for action.<br />
<br />
Published on the 7th February the Henley review has outlined some clear changes that need to be made in order for music education in England to progress. At a glance the review expressed the need for greater solidarity between musical education providers, a plea to provide a broad and diverse music education, as well as the need to emphasise and communicate the full breadth and depth of music-making opportunities for children.
<div style="clear:both;"></div> From our perspective, there are three main aspects of the report that we would like to highlight and endorse:
<ul>
<li> <strong>Continuation of Funding for Another Year</strong> <br />
We welcome the recommendation that funding should continue to local authority music services and are pleased that the Secretary of State has endorsed this for the next financial year. We urge Michael Gove to announce what funding plans he has after April 2012 as speedily as possible.</li><br />
<li><strong>Music Should Remain in the National Curriculum</strong> <br />
To us this is even more important than the continuation of funding. Having music in the curriculum as a statutory requirement up to the age of 14 creates an updraft which feeds the other musical activities in schools. Without it, the musical life of schools could wither and die very rapidly. In a similar vein we would also urge Mr Gove to allow for music to be an integral part of the English Baccalaureate and we endorse the Music Industry Association (MIA)&#8217;s campaign for music's inclusion. Anything that waters down the presence of music in the curriculum will inevitably put music making in schools at risk, we are already seeing the negative impact of the English Bacc on numbers of candidates registering for Music GCSE..</li><br />
<li><strong>Grade Exams and League Table.</strong> <br />
We fully endorse the recommendation that schools should be made fully aware of the value of graded exams and the contribution they can make to their league tables. Rockschool&#8217;s graded exams are taken by a great many school students who otherwise would not be interested in a music exam and their achievements should be properly recognised.</li></ul> <em>&#8220;We are delighted that our Graded Music Exams have been recognised in the Music Education In England Review. We agree that Music Education opportunities need to be communicated in a clear and open manner. Rockschool works hard to make music qualifications available to students of all ages and backgrounds and are proud to provide recognised music teaching diplomas in conjunction with the Musicians Union to maintain music teaching standards. We look forward to the next stage of this review.&#8221;</em><strong> Norton York &#8211; Rockschool Chairman. </strong><br />
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We would also like to offer our complete support towards the call for greater cohesion between the music education sector as a whole. In the aim of achieving solidarity, Rockschool will continue to develop and expand upon its collaboration with government bodies &amp; other music education providers and looks forward to providing an even better service to music education in England.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/97JRaf7kHX0" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=405 Top Tips To Improve Your Playing For Drummershttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/hgRuwbW7LVU/newsarticle.aspx<strong>We take you through our Top 5 tips to help you become a better drummer. </strong>&nbsp;<br />
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<h4>1. Always practice with a metronome</h4>Being a drummer is all about timing, yes playing fast with dramatic chops and accents always sounds great but if you can&#8217;t stick to the beat these lavish tricks become worthless. iphone users can download free metronome apps as well as being widely available online, so there&#8217;s no excuses! Check out <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/" target="_self">musicroom.com</a> for the physical alternative. <br />
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<h4>2. Listen to a variety of different styles of music</h4>Listening to a number of different styles of music will help develop your creativity and will give you numerous ideas from which to base your own fills and chops on. Rockschool tunes already provide you with an awesome variety of different styles of music to pull from, however for further listening on the web head to <a href="http://www.last.fm/" target="_self">last.fm</a> &amp; <a href="http://www.purevolume.com/" target="_self">purevolume.com</a> <br />
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<h4>3. Always warm up before a gig</h4>Like in any physical sport or exercise warming up before you start is vital for engaging your muscles. Practice a number of different rudiments for at least 10mins before you go on stage, try doing this along to music to help you get pumped before you go on. The technical exercises provided in our Grade Books are a perfect starting point. <br />
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<h4>4. Slow Down<br />
</h4>Speed always features quite prominently in a drummers top 10 list of things they want to improve on. The best tip we can offer to improve your speed is to slow down. Speed is all about building muscle memory, start practicing slower to a metronome to give your muscles the chance to adapt to faster sticking. Be patient and you will notice the difference! <br />
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<h4>5. Aim to learn something new every day</h4>If you can get into the habit of learning a new fill, pattern, stroke or technique every day you will notice a dramatic improvement in your playing. Engaging your brain in daily learning with help your practice become more focused &amp; organised. All the <a href="http://www.musicroom.com/se/ID_No/0450936/details.html" target="_self">HOT ROCK</a> Books have great fills, tips and techniques to work through.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/hgRuwbW7LVU" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=37Express Your Musical Notion - Win FREE Music Writing Softwarehttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/K0sJQk0iiRc/newsarticle.aspxWe have teamed up again with our friends at <strong><a shape="rect" href="http://www.notionmusic.com/index.html">Notion Music</a></strong> to give away 5 copies of <strong><a shape="rect" href="http://www.notionmusic.com/products/notion3.html">NOTION3</a></strong> music software WORTH &#163;180 EACH!!<br />
<br />
<strong><a shape="rect" href="http://www.notionmusic.com/products/notion3.html">NOTION3</a></strong> is the latest in music creation software. This incredibly diverse and easy to use music writing software comes with over 10GB of improved and enhanced sounds exclusively featuring the London Symphony Orchestra and some of the best Rock &amp; Pop musicians around.<br />
<br />
<h4>NOTION3 features:</h4>
<ul>
<li>Intuitive user interface that&#8217;s easy to look at and easy to use</li>
<li>Over 10GB of sounds exclusively featuring the London Symphony Orchestra</li>
<li>Advanced real-time tempo control allowing it to be used like a musical instrument </li>
<li>Expanded sound library that includes all of the Guitar, Bass, and Drum samples from <a shape="rect" href="http://www.notionmusic.com/products/progression.html">PROGRESSION</a></li>
<li>Real Time MIDI Input </li>
<li>Windows &amp; Mac Compatible</li></ul>NOTION3 has hundreds of great features for both students and teachers. <strong>Students</strong> can create their own improvised licks &amp; riffs and play them back with virtually limitless instruments and sounds. <strong>Teachers</strong> can effectively demonstrate notation, dynamics, tempo &amp; timbre with ease, creating engaging lessons plans that are not only fun, but also sound great too.<br />
<br />
<a shape="rect" href=" http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/competitions/201102/" target="_self">Enter the competition now</a><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/K0sJQk0iiRc" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=39MIA Supports Live Music Venue Amendmentshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/5MZT3QAwRPw/newsarticle.aspx<strong>The Music Industries Association (MIA) has leant its support to a campaign designed to back the UK&#8217;s live music sector and is calling upon the government to do the same.</strong><br />
<br />
Currently, under the terms of the Licensing Act, venues in England that wish to host live music performances must apply for and purchase a special licence.<br />
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However, campaigners (including the Klaxons) are backing the new proposals contained within the Clement-Jones Live Music Bill, which recommends that venues with a capacity of under 200 people should be exempt from the rules and regulations contained within the Act.<br />
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The House of Lords has set aside March 4th for the second reading of the Bill. It presents an opportunity for the government to get on board to support an exception in the Licensing Act to allow pubs and clubs to host small scale gigs without having to apply for a licence. <br />
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The MIA claims that the issues delve right to the heart of the government&#8217;s much-hyped Big Society initiative.The organisations explained that live music is a key community function that brings people together.<br />
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As such, smaller venues, with a capacity of under 200, can play an important role within communities and helping them put on live music is a great demonstration of the Big Society in action.<br />
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Paul McManus, chief executive officer of the MIA, explained: &#8220;While it is encouraging that the Bill will be debated, the fact that it remains unclear whether the government will provide the necessary support is of concern.<br />
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<em>&#8220;Clear data has been presented that shows nearly 75 per cent of stakeholders, including councils, licensees and venue owners in favour of a change in the law to allow an exemption for small venues.&#8221;</em><br />
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He continued: <em>&#8220;Many of these venues both want and need to provide live music, both to generate revenue and to provide diversity in entertainment for their customers.&#8221;</em><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/5MZT3QAwRPw" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=36Music 'Can Help Improve Literacy and Numeracy'http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/eJyFs5t1YGM/newsarticle.aspx<em>Posted by Jamie Franklin - Roland.co.uk</em><br />
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Music education needs to be a part of a successful and balanced curriculum, one expert had claimed.<br />
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Paul McManus, chief executive officer of the Music Industries Association, noted the pastime helps children to improve their numeracy and literacy.<br />
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He was speaking after education minister Michael Gove revealed &#163;82.5 million will be given towards music education by the government.<br />
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<em>&quot;It is extremely encouraging to read the continuing supportive comments ... concerning the importance of music education for a child and the wide-ranging benefits it brings to a child's development,&quot;</em> Mr McManus observed.<br />
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He added the requirement to maintain the statutory entitlement for a child to learn a musical instrument as set out in the Henley Review is good news.<br />
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<em>&quot;Secondary benefits of a quality music education are those of increased self esteem and aspirations; improved behaviour and social skills; and improved academic attainment in areas such as numeracy, literacy and language&quot;</em> - Henley <br />
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The specialist observed his organisation is ready to help students get access to quality products.<br />
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Mr Gove noted he is hoping to attract more top music graduates into the profession by using Teach First, a scheme that sees exceptional candidates placed in challenging schools.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/eJyFs5t1YGM" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=35School Music Funding Aims To Reach Less Well-offhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/zIMpjUdlB9M/newsarticle.aspx<strong>The government says funding for music in England's schools will increasingly be targeted at the less well-off in a bid to close a &quot;musical divide between rich and poor&quot;.</strong><br />
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Responding to a review of school music, the government announced plans to bring more music graduates into teaching. A National Plan for Music Education has also been promised for later this year.<br />
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School music funding will remain at &#163;82.5m for next year - the same amount as funded through councils this year. Following this transitional year, the education department says it will work with music services <em>&quot;to manage future budget pressures&quot;.</em><br />
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The review was led by Darren Henley, managing director of Classic FM. He was asked to look at how public funding could be used to give every child the opportunity to learn an instrument and to sing.<br />
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He was also looking at how to improve classroom teachers' skills and confidence in giving music lessons. The Education Secretary Michael Gove had said it was a <em>&quot;sad fact&quot;</em> that many state school children did not have the chance to learn an instrument.<br />
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The government says it will keep its school music budget for 2011-2012 at the present level of &#163;82.5m next year. The shape of music education after this will be determined by a forthcoming National Plan for Music Education. There have been fears about public spending cuts damaging music education.<br />
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Many schools arrange music lessons and instrument hire for children through local bodies called <em>&quot;music services&quot;</em> run by councils and some of those have said they fear cuts or even closure.<br />
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The music services are funded through local authorities, central government grants and parental contributions. Councils in England are facing a budget cut of about 25% over the next four years.<br />
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The musicians' professional body, the <a href="http://www.ism.org/">Incorporated Society of Musicians</a> (ISM), recently accused some councils of going <em>&quot;too far, too soon&quot;</em> by cutting budgets for children's music lessons, before details of national funding had been revealed. That was echoed by the the <a href="http://www.thefms.org/" target="_self">Federation of Music Services</a> (FMS), which said a handful of councils were publicly proposing <em>&quot;pre-emptive cuts&quot;</em> as part of wider cost savings, which could <em>&quot;irreparably undermine&quot;</em> services. On future funding, the government has said it will work with local authorities and schools inspectors Ofsted to <em>&quot;ensure the most disadvantaged children are targeted&quot;.</em><br />
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Also, it is to launch a scheme called <em>&quot;Music Teach First&quot;</em>, through which it aims to recruit musicians from leading music schools to go to teach in <em>&quot;the nations most challenging schools&quot;.</em>And it says it wants to make it easier for leading orchestras and musicians to help improve music education in schools.<br />
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Education Secretary Michael Gove said: <em>&quot;Music has the power to touch the soul. It is a universal language understood by people of every culture. And it gives us all the chance to be transported by beauty&quot;.</em><br />
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<em>&quot;But access to the best musical education is not universal and the opportunity to benefit from great instrumental tuition is not shared equally.</em><br />
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<em>&quot;Many disadvantaged children are denied the music education they deserve. And that's why we need to bridge this musical divide.&quot;</em><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/zIMpjUdlB9M" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=34Teachers Worried Over Music Education Provisionhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/QQ-QYJb05mo/newsarticle.aspx<em>Posted by blog.musicroom.com</em><br />
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Music opportunities for pupils in schools in England are gradually being eroded as a result of the introduction of the new English Baccalaureate.<br />
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Responding to a recent survey conducted by the <a href="http://www.name.org.uk/">National Association of Music Educators</a> (NAME), the vast majority of secondary school music teachers said that their departments and students have been impacted by the qualification.<br />
<br />
Indeed, of those questioned in the survey, NAME found that 60 per cent of educators feared that their schools would reduce the level of music opportunities which it afforded to its pupils.<br />
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Respondents said that this would be a result of headteachers looking to increase the number of pupils taking and passing the English Baccalaureate.<br />
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<em>&#8220;The arts have long been recognised as an essential part of a broad and balanced education,&#8221; </em> Sarah Kekus, the chair of NAME, said.<br />
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<em>&#8220;Excluding the arts from the English Baccalaureate makes them invisible in school, not only leading to cuts in provision, but also reducing opportunities for young people to gain recognition for what they excel in.&#8221;</em><br />
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Education secretary Michael Gove introduced the Baccalaureate to help measure the performance of schools in England. It takes in performance in five core subject areas including maths, English, science, a foreign language and either history or geography.<br />
<br />
However, not everyone has welcomed the move and both NAME and the Incorporated Society of Musicians have called for Mr Gove to reconsider the omission of music from the core subject areas.<br />
<br />
Deborah Annetts, chief executive <a href="http://www.ism.org/">Incorporated Society of Musicians</a>, told the BBC that she was concerned that music will be squeezed out of the curriculum altogether.<br />
<br />
<em>&#8220;Not only are there challenges for music education in terms of funding and structure, but also music&#8217;s place in the curriculum is under threat,&#8221; she warns. &#8220;The government must stop, look and listen before it takes a seriously wrong step, jeopardising music education for generations to come.&#8221;</em><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/QQ-QYJb05mo" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=33The Joanna Langston Interviewhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/Kqg696f43HU/newsarticle.aspxJo was born in 1984 with no sight at all and with quite severe learning difficulties but the one thing that has shone through the years is her love of music, listening and performing. <br />
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With Jo recently achieving a distinction in her Rockschool Grade 8 Drum exam we thought we'd catch up with Jo's dad Mike and find out her tips for success and the challenges faced by her disability.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=158"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=159" align="left" title="Click to view a larger image" style="width: 232px;height: 151px;padding-right:15px;" /></a> <strong>Q. What inspired Jo to start playing the drums?</strong> <br />
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A. Jo's always been very musical since birth; she's always had a great sense of rhythm using an old briefcase, and believe it or not a radiator to tap on as a toddler. When she was old enough we decided to buy her her own kit and we've never looked back. <br />
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<strong>Q. Has Jo got a favourite Drummer or favourite band?</strong> <br />
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A. Jo was brought up on a lot of 50's and 60's bands such as the Beatles, and slowly grew to love drumming greats like Ringo Starr, Gene Krupa and Buddy Rich. Their playing styles had a tremendous influence on her own drumming and mentality towards the instrument. <br />
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<strong>Q. How instrumental has Steve (her teacher) been in her development and progression as a musician?</strong> <br />
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A. We tried a number of different drum tutors before we arrived at Steve, but none of them offered the same structure. Steve was great with Jo, they just seemed to click from the start. He really developed her technical side of drumming, getting her to practice rudiments and chops regularly. <br />
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<strong>Q. How did she find Rockschool &amp; her Grade 8 exam? Why did she decide to switch to Rockschool?</strong><br />
<br />
A. Jo took Trinity Guildhall up to Grade 6 - it was actually Steve (her current teacher) who advised Jo to consider &nbsp;Rockschool as he thought it might fit her playing style better. Rockschool offered Jo more freedom to play and develop the styles of music she loves. The exam was a lot more relaxed and a great deal of praise has to go out to Noam Lederman, (chief examiner at Rockschool) who was fantastic with her. <br />
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<strong>Q. Did Jo have a favourite piece to play?</strong> <br />
<br />
A. Definitely 'Whatever Happened To Jazz', she loves playing Jazz and swing parts on the drums - I must've heard her play that one a million times! <br />
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<strong>Q. How does Jo practice and what practice did she undergo before her exam?</strong><br />
<br />
A. It's extremely hard to get Jo to practice as she also has a learning disability, Steve got her to practice an hour or so every day focusing solely on the fundamentals. Each day she'd practice something different, Pieces, Rudiments, Technical Exercises and so on. <br />
<br />
<strong>Q. What advice do you think she'd give to other drummers out there?</strong><br />
<br />
A. I think what helped Jo the most was breaking down each segment of the Grade into easily manageable chunks. Any Grade exam can be quite daunting (especially Grade 8) and I think (for her) taking the time to tackle each section separately made the exam process a lot more relaxed and fun. <br />
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<strong>Q. What does the future hold for Jo? Other qualifications? Teaching/ Performance?</strong> <br />
<br />
A. Jo wants to continue drumming in the future; she's going to maintain her close working relationship with her tutor Steve Saunders and work through some more technical stuff by <a href="http://www.davehassell.co.uk/">Dave Hassle</a>. After this she hopes to take a Rockschool Performance Diploma and develop her playing further. <br />
<br />
We'd like to thank Mike, Jo's dad for his time and wish Jo all the best in the future; she is a true inspiration to us all.<br />
<table class="Document">
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<td class="Icon"><img class="AdobeReader" id="imgAdobeReaderIcon" alt="Adobe Reader Icon" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/IconAdobeReader.gif" complete="complete" style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" /></td>
<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=TheJoannaLangstonStory.pdf">The Joanna Langston Story</a></strong><br />
(222KB, 1 page, .pdf)</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/Kqg696f43HU" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=30Music Teaching Services to Be Cuthttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/eaQTOrwBWZk/newsarticle.aspx<em>Posted by Jamie Franklin - roland.co.uk</em><br />
<br />
There is concern that local authorities in the UK may introduce cuts to their music services and teaching provisions.<br />
<br />
According to the <a href="http://www.mia.org.uk/">Music Industries Association</a> (MIA), pre-emptive action seems to be occurring, despite a government pledge in December that there would be no scaling back, Mi-Pro reports.<br />
<br />
Some 34% of music services departments surveyed have been issued with an 'at risk' notice, which means funding is likely to be reduced.<br />
<br />
This is not good news for the next wave of aspiring musicians, who are looking to get expert advice from a young age.<br />
<br />
Paul McManus, chief executive officer of the MIA, said: &quot;We are extremely concerned about these actions that are clearly being taken even before we know the recommendations to be made following the review of music education.&quot;<br />
<br />
The Incorporated Society of Musicians added local authorities are going too far with their cuts to children's lessons.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/eaQTOrwBWZk" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=31How to Find a Music Teacherhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/revl5H6kwy0/newsarticle.aspx<span style="font-size: 14pt;">You can now find your nearest Rockschool music teacher with our brand new Teacher Registry<br />
<br />
</span>
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/teacherregistry" target="_self"> <img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=5978" /></a></p><br />
<a href="https://www.rockschool.co.uk/teacherregistry" target="_self">Aspiring musicians</a> need to make sure they have a good teacher if they want to progress.<br />
<br />
This is according to the <a href="http://www.mia.org.uk/">Music Industries Association</a>, which noted there are a number of organisations that can help people find who or what they are looking for.<br />
<br />
The first one is <a href="http://gigajamonline.com/">gigjamonline.com</a>, which offers web-based tutorials on a range of different instruments, while tutors are there to give support through forums.<br />
<br />
Another option is the <a href="http://www.ism.org/">Incorporated Society of Musicians</a>, a site that houses a register of professionally qualified teachers.<br />
<br />
Students have the option to pick someone based on price and experience and there is a stringent vetting process to ensure only the best are listed.<br />
<br />
If you want to be the next Jimi Hendrix or Slash, then this could be the place for you to find someone who will help you hone your skills.<br />
<br />
<br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/revl5H6kwy0" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=32Rockschool In Hong Konghttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/g1oBOEnBV_M/newsarticle.aspx<img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=126" complete="complete" style="width: 288px; height: 190px" /><br />
<br />
The first ever Rockschool pop music competition was held in Hong Kong in November and was met with fantastic support. The competition was split into three categories, Drums, Guitar &amp; Piano boasting nearly 100 competitors split into two categories. <br />
<br />
Two days were given (14, 21 Nov 2010) to the Open Group (screening) and Teen Group competition; with both group finals being held on the 28th Nov at the <em>Kowloon Park Piazza</em> in Hong Kong. <br />
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All Participants of the Teenager group were given a selection of Rockschool pieces to play; with the Open Group being given the tough decision of choosing either their own composition or a Rockschool performance piece. <br />
<br />
Rockschool examiners Ms. Jane Clarke, Ms. Claire Wakeman, and Mr. Steve Agnew, Mr. Ritty Van Straalen-Director of International Sales/Product Development at US Music Corp, and Mr. John Maul &#8211; Roland Digital Piano Artist were all on hand as official adjudicators. <br />
<br />
All judges commented on the remarkable quality and musicianship of all the contestants with impressive performances throughout.
<h4>Performance</h4><a shape="rect" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=147"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=141" complete="complete" style="width: 232px; height: 151px" /></a> <a shape="rect" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=148"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=142" complete="complete" style="width: 232px; height: 151px" /></a> <a shape="rect" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=149"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=143" complete="complete" style="width: 232px; height: 151px" /></a> <br />
<a shape="rect" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=145"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=139" complete="complete" style="width: 232px; height: 151px" /></a> <a shape="rect" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=146"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=140" complete="complete" style="width: 232px; height: 151px" /></a> <a shape="rect" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=150"><img src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=144" complete="complete" style="width: 232px; height: 151px" /></a> <br />
<span class="FormFieldHelp">(Click to view a larger image)</span>
<h4>Winners</h4>
<table class="GridView">
<tbody>
<tr><th class="LeftTop">Group </th><th class="Center" colspan="2">Winner </th><th class="RightTop" colspan="2">Pieces </th></tr>
<tr class="Dark">
<td class="LeftLeft" style="width: 20%">Teenager Drum </td>
<td style="width: 20%">Li Wan Ho </td>
<td style="width: 20%">&#26446;&#27859;&#28009; </td>
<td style="width: 20%">Garden Wall </td>
<td class="CenterRight" style="width: 20%">rockschool Pieces </td></tr>
<tr>
<td class="LeftLeft">Teenager Piano </td>
<td>Li Wa Hei </td>
<td>&#26446;&#27194;&#29113; </td>
<td>The Entertainer </td>
<td class="CenterRight">rockschool Pieces </td></tr>
<tr class="Dark">
<td class="LeftLeft">Open Drum </td>
<td>Yan Chin Wing </td>
<td>&#29956;&#23637;&#27054; </td>
<td>What Happen to Jazz </td>
<td class="CenterRight">rockschool Pieces </td></tr>
<tr>
<td class="LeftLeft">Open Piano </td>
<td>Ku Chi </td>
<td>&#21476;&#39347; </td>
<td>Over the Rainbow </td>
<td class="CenterRight">own choice piece </td></tr>
<tr class="Dark">
<td class="LeftLeft">Open Guitar </td>
<td>Leung Ka Lok </td>
<td>&#26753;&#23478;&#27138; </td>
<td>Viking Kong </td>
<td class="CenterRight">own choice piece </td></tr>
<tr>
<td class="Footer" colspan="5"><br />
</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
Through the competitions success, Rockschool Hong Kong hopes to spread popular music in youth culture in the aim of helping people play the music they love. <br />
<br />
Rockschool Hong Kong would like to say a big thank you to everyone that attended and to all the support shown.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/g1oBOEnBV_M" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=24Progress with PROGRESSION - Win FREE music writing software!http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/xt8PebyXVMU/newsarticle.aspx<table style="width:100%;">
<tbody>
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<td>Rockschool have teamed up with our friends at <strong>Notion Music</strong> to give away 5 copies of <strong>PROGRESSION</strong> software.<br />
<br />
<strong>PROGRESSION</strong> is for anyone who plays the Guitar, Bass, Drums, Keys or Vocals and comes with 1000's of amazing samples from top class global artists. It also comes with real-time tempo control so you can slow that tricky track down and learn it correctly.
<h4>PROGRESSION Features</h4>
<ul>
<li>Write music and hear it instantly!</li>
<li>Built in Amp Simulations and Effects</li>
<li>Interactive fretboard with drum AND chord library!</li>
<li>Write in TAB or standard notation, both update automatically</li>
<li>Real time tempo control - lets you slow those tricky tracks down </li>
<li>Mac, PC and MIDI compatible</li> </ul> <a href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/competitions/201101/">Follow this link to enter the competition</a> </td>
<td style="padding-left:20px;"><a id="hypProgressionOne" href="http://www.notionmusic.com/products/progression.html"><img id="imgProgressionProduct" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/Resources/Images/Competitions/ProgressionProduct.png" alt="Progression" style="height:150px;width:116px;border-width:0px;" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <br />
<br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/xt8PebyXVMU" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=28Labour Elects Music Championhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/xjePDfE1mKc/newsarticle.aspx<em>By Robert Ashton</em><br />
<br />
Shadow culture secretary Ivan Lewis has issued a scathing assessment of the Government's custody of the music and creative sector and its lack of progress with delivering a workable Digital Economy Act.<br />
<br />
In a speech to the Oxford media convention yesterday, Lewis criticized his opposite number the culture secretary Jeremy Hunt and his DCMS team for showing a <em>&quot;lack of leadership&quot;</em> with the creative industries.<br />
<br />
Lewis said the creative industries are a great British success story, but he also claimed they are in <em>&quot;peril of falling behind without Government leadership and industry cohesion.&quot;</em> He then lambasted the Conservative-led coalition for praising the sector while providing it with little support.<br />
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He said, <em>&quot;Not only has there been no growth strategy but there has also been a total lack of leadership&quot;.</em> Lewis then issued a roll call of what he sees as Government failures, including a delay on the roll out of broadband, confusion over IP with new Hargreaves review and no progress on the Digital Economy Act.<br />
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Lewis also asked the Government to revisit his recently-suggested, and UK Music endorsed - plan to set up a cross Government creative group, which would be chaired at Cabinet level and work with music and other creative industry executives. <br />
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This plan would deal with issues such as access to finance for small music companies. Lewis added, <em>&quot;I intend to be a champion for the creative industries - we got it in Government and we get it in opposition.&quot;;</em><br />
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Lewis' comments follow a speech to the same conference by Hunt, who warned the creative industries that their business models could not be preserved in aspic.<br />
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Hunt pledged that his Government will help the music and creative industries develop further through high speed broadband investment and also by developing <em>&quot;an innovation-friendly environment for intellectual property that protects the rights of creators without preserving current business models in aspic.&quot;</em><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/xjePDfE1mKc" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=27Rock Music 'Will Always Be Important'http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/rH8nwC39ZOk/newsarticle.aspx<em>Posted by Jamie Franklin</em><br />
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Rock music will always be a popular genre of music, one expert has claimed.<br />
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James McMahon, writing for the <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/music/2011/jan/10/rock-n-roll-read-last-rites">Guardian</a>, made the comments after research by <a href="http://www.musicweek.com/story.asp?sectioncode=1&storycode=1043779&c=1">Music Week</a> found only three rocks songs featured in a list of the top 100-selling singles of 2010.<br />
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However, he noted there are a number of artists - such as <a href="http://www.entershikari.com/" "="">Enter Shikari</a> and <a href="http://www.bulletformyvalentine.com/uk/home">Bullet For My Valentine</a> - that are regularly playing to 5,000-plus people in live gigs.<br />
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Mr McMahon added music magazines are still bought by rock fans and titles like <a href="http://www.classicrockmagazine.com/">Classic Rock</a> and <a href="http://www.kerrang.com/">Kerrang!</a> still have very healthy circulations.<br />
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The specialist added those who like this genre of music are very <em>&quot;internet savvy&quot;</em>, which means they are less likely to buy singles as they are <em>&quot;consuming music in ways that, legal or not, don't register on Music Week statistics&quot;.</em><br />
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So it seems aspiring musicians should not be put off by reports of the decline of rock, because this debate has been raging since the 60s.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/rH8nwC39ZOk" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=265 Top Tips To Improve Your Playinghttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/MzWt6k3pi4k/newsarticle.aspx<em>by James Uings</em><br />
<h4>1. Use a Metronome</h4>While it's not the most glamorous item a musician owns, a metronome is an essential piece of equipment for every player. Using one regularly will improve your timing, and sense of rhythm. Don't be discouraged if you find playing with a metronome difficult at first, if you persevere you will quickly improve and playing with a metronome will start to feel like second nature.
<h4>2. Practice Vs Playing</h4>There's a big difference between practice and playing. When you practice you are working on specific techniques and exercises that will help take your playing to the next level. However it's easy to drift into playing your favourite songs and licks. Of course, there's nothing wrong with playing what you love, but invariably you can already play this material so there is little value in replacing disciplined practice with things you are already familiar with. Try to keep your playing separate from your practice otherwise you will find yourself stuck at the same level.
<h4>3. Play With Other People</h4>Another great way to progress is to play with other people. Sharing ideas with other players is an excellent way to build your musical vocabulary. Playing with a friend is also the first step towards forming your own band.
<h4>4. Critical Listening</h4>It's all very well saying, I like this or I don't like this, it's important to be able to describe why you do or don't like something. Is it the flowing melody, the catchy chorus, or is it highly technical playing that works for you? Understanding the elements that make up the music you like, or don't like, will help you compose music that you're very happy with.
<h4>5. Perform Regularly</h4>Headlining at Wembley stadium is a dream for any musician, it takes lots of less glamorous performances to build your skills to help you achieve this lofty goal. It's important that you perform as often as possible as performances improve your playing more than even the most intense practice sessions. Even if you're not in a band yet, or don't feel ready to play in a public venue, there are plenty of potential audiences you can play to. Open mic nights are an excellent, welcoming environment to start playing in. Friends and family make ideal audiences and it's surprising how much pressure performing in front of these people can add. This will raise your playing level more that you might imagine.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/MzWt6k3pi4k" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=20WeGotTickets Commits to Youth Music’s Pioneer Campaignhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/4YebsTBbyds/newsarticle.aspx<em>by Gordon Masson</em><br />
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WeGotTickets has signed up to support Youth Music's Pioneers project, having raised thousands of pounds for the charity through its December advent initiative.WeGotTickets' Christmas campaign for Youth Music raised more than &#163;2,000 as the Oxford-based ticketing agent pledged 100% of all booking fees from Christmas Day sales, as well as facilitating optional donations throughout December to be made by customers.<br />
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Awareness of Youth Music's work and their support from musicians via an online advent calendar gave WGT customers the chance to see how the charity's various teams up and down the country transform the lives of disadvantaged children through music.<br />
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The calendar presented photos and videos to see their work in action, a competition to win a Rankin print of indie band Cornershop, information on how to become a Youth Music Pioneer with the support of WeGotTickets, as well as the chance to hear about celebrity musicians who back the cause, such as Ian Brown and the Scissor Sisters.<br />
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As the new year kicks into gear, WeGotTickets has pledged its continuing support for the charity through the Youth Music Pioneers project - an ongoing scheme to encourage and support young people to open themselves up to even more performance spaces and opportunities.<br />
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WeGotTickets will sell tickets for all the fundraising events the project puts on through a Youth Music Pioneers branded ticketing portal, which will also carry the optional customer donation option. The ticketing company will donate 20% of the booking fee on all Youth Music Pioneers tickets sold back to the charity.<br />
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Graeme Murray, who led the Youth Music Christmas activity at WeGotTickets, says, <br />
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<em>&quot;The advent calendar was a great way to really show the work Youth Music do throughout the year, around the country and with so many different young people and musical styles. It has been great to assist a charity focussed on youth arts in the light of funding cuts so many organisations are facing in 2011&quot;.</em><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/4YebsTBbyds" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=23Education Secretary Michael Gove has hit out at the Musicians' Unionhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/94_4HL9-AZQ/newsarticle.aspx<em>by Hannah Richardson BBC News education reporter</em> <br />
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A union training video says touching pupils could expose music tutors, who often teach in one-to-one sessions, to charges of inappropriate behaviour.<br />
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Mr Gove said the advice played to a <em>&quot;culture of fear among adults and children&quot;.</em> But the Musicians' Union says careers have been ruined by false allegations. <br />
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It says instrumental music teachers are particularly vulnerable as they are often alone with pupils when they give lessons. <br />
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In his letter to the union's general secretary John Smith, and other youth and music bodies, Mr Gove said: <em>&quot;By telling your music teachers that they should avoid any physical contact with children, it sends out completely the wrong message&quot;.</em><br />
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<em>&quot;It plays to a culture of fear among both adults and children, reinforcing the message that any adult who touches a child is somehow guilty of inappropriate contact&quot;.</em><br />
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<em>&quot;We must move away from this presumption and the Department for Education is taking steps to restore common sense to this whole area.&quot;</em><br />
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He said there were many occasions when it was <em>&quot;totally appropriate&quot;</em> and <em>&quot;positively right&quot;</em> for teaches or tutors to be in physical contact with a pupil. He said it was <em>&quot;proper and necessary&quot;</em> for adults to touch children when they demonstrated how to play a musical instrument. It was particularly important that those teaching instruments should feel confident that they could demonstrate how to master and improve pupils' techniques.<br />
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<strong>&quot;Teachers should be trusted to touch children&quot;</strong><br />
<em>Michael Gove Education Secretary</em><br />
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<em>&quot;Whether it's adjusting the position of a violin or demonstrating how to handle drumsticks, showing how a trombone slide should work or introducing new subtleties in oboe playing, teachers should be trusted to touch children without feeling they are somehow transgressing the rules of appropriate conduct.&quot;</em><br />
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He added that the government was publishing shorter, clearer guidance on the subject and changing the way allegations of abuse against teachers are dealt with. But Diane Widdison, national organiser for teaching at the Musicians' Union, said it existed to protect its members' careers and the children they teach.<br />
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<em>&quot;When allegations are made against music teachers they are suspended immediately while an investigation is carried out and their careers are damaged or ruined even if they are declared innocent.&quot;In one recent case the parents of a child learning the guitar complained that the teacher had touched their child's finger to pluck a guitar string.&quot;</em> <br />
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Diane Widdison, from the Musicians Union, explained why they had issued the advice to their members. She added that it should not be necessary to touch children to teach them how to play an instrument.<br />
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<em>&quot;In many cases having to be more creative and find alternatives to touching reinforces the learning process because it ensures that children are thinking for themselves.</em><br />
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<em>&quot;This is a more effective way of teaching and means that children remember the correct posture and positions when they are practising alone,&quot;</em> she said.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/94_4HL9-AZQ" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=21Cleaning a Guitar 'Can Improve Its Tone'http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/sRdJW2jh33E/newsarticle.aspx<em>Posted by Martyn Hopkins</em><br />
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Professional guitarists looking to improve the tone they get from their instrument should make sure they regularly clean it.<br />
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This piece of advice was given in the 'Gibson Lifestyle blog', which noted smoke, dirt, perspiration and grease can all contribute to reducing the sound quality.<br />
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According to the news provider, failure to keep the device in tip-top shape can have a long-lasting detrimental effect on it. And everybody knows there is nothing worse than a guitar that isn't achieving the kinds of sounds and riffs it is capable of.<br />
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<em>&quot;Ideally, you should clean your guitar each time you change the strings. With your strings off, you have much better access to your fretboard,&quot;</em> the posting stated.<br />
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For those who take a lot of pride in how their guitars look, taking a bit of polish to it four of five times a year will ensure that it always looks its best.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/sRdJW2jh33E" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=22MIA Welcomes Government Commitmenthttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/8BJqZdSol04/newsarticle.aspxA government pledge which has implied that funding for music education will continue has been welcomed by the Music Industries Association (MIA).The body was reacting to news that the coalition expects that it will <em>&quot;continue to provide funding&quot;</em> for the subject, despite implementing a host of other cuts within education.<br />
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Education secretary Michael Gove recently explained that, although current grants are coming to an end, he is committed to helping improve the standard of music provision in schools in England and drew attention to the Henley Review of Music Education. Added to this, the government has announced that it has made an additional &#163;625 million available for disadvantaged children, some of which MIA believes can be used to support music education.<br />
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Chief executive of the industry body Paul McManus said he welcomes the recent government comments. He explained that it was recognition for the contribution which is made to the UK economy by music as a whole.<br />
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<em>&quot;The UK economy, through its creative industries, benefits significantly from music, with over 130,000 people employed actively in the making, performing, recording and distributing of music contributing nearly &#163;5 billion to the economy annually,&quot;</em> he added.<br />
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<em>&quot;Just as importantly, music develops creativity and contributes uniquely to raising attainment in literacy and numeracy and should therefore be a key part of a broad and balanced school curriculum.&quot;</em><br />
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A recent poll conducted by YouGov and the Incorporated Society of Musicians found that the majority of the public are in favour of giving children the opportunity to learn a musical instrument while they are at school.<br />
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Of those questioned, 91 per cent of the public were supportive of free tuition in schools, while more than 75 per cent backed maintaining the current level of government funding.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/8BJqZdSol04" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=18The Live Music Debate Continueshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/uS8KzWxeuJE/newsarticle.aspx<strong>PRS for Music has received 31 official responses to its long running consultation on live music royalty rates</strong><br />
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The Concert Promoters Association, Festival Republic and the Glastonbury Festival are among the respondents to the consultation, which opened last June and looked at a number of associated issues from secondary ticketing to kickbacks on booking fees.<br />
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PRS for Music director of public performance sales Keith Gilbert says he is pleased with the level of response and engagement the organization has had from the live sector.However, some sections of that sector have already gone on record to say they are unsympathetic about any moves PRS might make to raise the tariff live music has to pay composers, publishers and songwriters (the tariff rate for popular live music is currently set at 3% of ticket receipts and was last reviewed in 1988).<br />
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At the end of last year Live Nation chief operating officer Paul Latham called PRS <em>&quot;bounty hunters&quot;</em> if it was looking for a bigger slice of the live pie.For his part Gilbert says, &quot;<em>We all want to see the continued success of live music in this country, and we will be taking all comments on board in this review process&quot;.</em>
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<em>&quot;We need to spend time now reviewing all responses and understanding all of the issues raised by those who have responded. (I) feel it has been a very crucial exercise to undertake.&quot;</em>
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PRS is planning to reveal the findings of the consultation sometime in the spring.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/uS8KzWxeuJE" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=19Musicians Should Enjoy Not Working With a Record Labelhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/MTRhEpZvwQI/newsarticle.aspx<em>Posted by Martyn Hopkins on</em> <a shape="rect" href="http://www.roland.co.uk/">Roland.co.uk</a><br />
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Musicians who have the opportunity to work without a record label should take full advantage of it, one expert has claimed.<br />
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Trent Reznor, lead singer of the industrial rock band Nine Inch Nails, told Music Mix working without the bureaucracy that executives can bring has been &quot;magnificent&quot;.<br />
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He added it is hard to beat the feeling a performer can get from the &quot;luxury of being able to work on something and put it out exactly the way you want it to&quot;.<br />
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While there are certain pitfalls with going independent, such as the fact making new fans may not be as easy as expected, Reznor is still happy with the decision he has made.<br />
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For aspiring musicians looking to make it in the industry he has some advice - ensure they are skilled and proficient players of their instruments and make use of media formats such as <a shape="rect" href="http://www.youtube.com/">YouTube</a>.<br />
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Justin Bieber shot to fame after videos specifically shot for this website made him a household name.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/MTRhEpZvwQI" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=15Playing Music 'Good for the Mind'http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/3utJc-9oIv4/newsarticle.aspx<em>Posted by Helen Whitten</em><br />
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Learning to play music offers a number of benefits, regardless of whether the favoured instrument is a beginner's piano,guitar or synthesizer.<br />
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In a column for the Daily Mail, Dr Martin Scurr paid tribute to the &quot;superb&quot; musicians who performed on the latest series of BBC One talent show Strictly Come Dancing, pointing out they were required to perfect several numbers and play them to the &quot;highest standard&quot;.<br />
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Memorising a piece of music in the manner has a similar impact on the brain as meditation, Dr Scurr claimed, stating it improves the memory and concentration.<br />
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His comments follow research from Brandon Ally of Boston University that suggested playing music could help Alzheimer's sufferers to retain new information.<br />
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Patients involved in the study were found to be better at recalling lyrics when they were set to a backing track.<br />
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Commenting further on the benefits offered by learning how to play different pieces of music, Dr Scurr added: &quot;Vocabulary and possibly even IQ are enhanced with musical training.&quot;<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/3utJc-9oIv4" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=16Who is Developing Our Artists?http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/XNf2ME8iKec/newsarticle.aspx<em>By Jim Mawdsley</em><br />
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<strong>Generator chief executive Jim Mawdsley has published the second in a series of papers asking questions about the future of the UK music industry. The campaign paper, 'Who Develops Our Artists?' looks at the current challenges facing the industry as funders and Government look to the creative industries to support economic growth. In order to plan for future growth, Mawdsley feels that the industry must put in place new models to reflect falling levels of investment in developing new musical talent.</strong><br />
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The full paper follows below:<br />
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The businesses that make up the UK recording industry have traditionally been, by and large, the sole investors in developing UK music talent. To a great extent they still are, however it is widely accepted that the recent shrinkage of revenues for the UK's Recording companies has lead to a decrease in the amount of finance they can invest and indeed speculate in the area of new talent. This has by no means stifled the desire for young people to form bands, write songs and play live wherever they can. The recent rise in the popularity of live music is not only witnessed in the festival scene, stadium gigs or at our arenas but in smaller venues throughout the UK. This is where some of these newly formed bands and artists maybe taking their first tentative steps on a potentially exciting and possibly lucrative career as a global artist. In achieving this goal they will be helping UK Music's ambition to ensure that the UK is 'the primary source of repertoire and number one music producing country in the World'. However, if the record companies are no longer in a position to develop and nurture the talent it needs for such growth, who is or who should be?<br />
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This is an area that is frequently discussed but seldom seems resolved and despite this protracted debate, it still puzzles me, amongst many others in the music industry, that a UK Government can still be discussing a future for Screen Agencies (which there should be) while underpinning plans for the development of commercial creative industries, without recognising that music (which is not only one of our biggest exports it also accounts, according the PRS report 'Adding Up The Music Industry For 2009' for an input to the UK economy of &#163;3.9 Billion) still doesn't have a recognised, regulated or funded hub and spoke structure that ensures UK wide development of artists and the businesses that they work with. Owing to the massive contribution to the economy should music not be out there on its own? Not as a bit part of a wider creative industries development agency but, with a dedicated service that ensures future growth at all stages? The level at which this could be delivered, is a question that needs debate and constructive suggestions, but I'm sure we would find few doubters for this to take place, if in the new climate we live in, we need to unearth and develop the rich seem of talent the UK undoubtedly has.<br />
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In a similar vein to a previous offering 'Levelling The playing Field' this brief paper seeks to stimulate further discussion and debate by asking a number of questions around potential roles, investment choices and possible solutions as to where the responsibility lies in developing talent to the point of music industry readiness.<br />
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Some would argue at this point that this is clearly the role of the manager. Yes, traditionally you might agree. A simplistic view of a manager's initial role would be find the talent, nurture it, devise a 'plot' for their artists and then use their contacts to secure a recording contract. While things would become a lot more complicated from there on, it is true to say that it is much easier for a record company to sign an act with management (and therefore one point of contact) but in a world where the job of the manager to secure a contract for their artist and receive an advance to invest in recording etc is increasingly harder. In addition to this, are we also witnessing a dwindling number of managers? Some of us working in the Music Industry development sector are certainly seeing this and we are either looking for managers to offer support to or providing opportunities for training as managers because our artists need them.<br />
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Even if the managers are there, they are less likely to engage with artists at an early stage and will continue to be more selective over which artists they work with as the opportunities to progress with them are currently clearly limited. Moreover, as the pessimistic argument that music start-ups have no chance gathers support and misunderstanding, is it enough to merely manage a band or should a management start up be looking to be multi faceted to include recording their artists to license, make available for synchronization deals and seek out other revenue streams around the live market rather than performing one single element of the supply chain? This is a whole debate in itself.<br />
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Artist development begins as soon as the band is formed and the songs are written. This is self development based on influences and a desire to reproduce or build upon the artistic content and success of the artists that shape a new bands life. However, as has been largely identified and agreed, programmes such as the Department of Culture Media and Sport sponsored Live Music Forum's Rehearsal Space scheme, piloted with the Welsh Music Foundation in Wrexham, that provides affordable, publicly subsidised and well equipped spaces for artists to experiment with, are vital to the life blood of the UK's musical economy. It is at rehearsal rooms and indeed small local venues up and down the country, where initial development takes place. It is here where the raw songs are fine tuned and the stage craft is tried out. But with the recording industry talent budget shrinking and the potential lack of managers (particularly in the regions), who makes sure that artists are playing the right gigs, working with the right promoters (ones who do it professionally rather than merely to fill a pub and sell beer), ensures the band are building a fan base, recording the right songs to be made available through web platforms or for sale at gigs? And the final question, who is available to advise the artists on when they are ready for management and whether a particular manager will help or hinder their career? In short, who makes sure an artist is industry-ready and in a really strong position to take the next steps?<br />
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While it is obvious that the rehearsal rooms should be linked to particular live venues and as such the powers of natural selection will mean the promoters at this level will book the more accomplished and crowd pulling artists, it also goes largely unrecognised that they are both developing the artist as the talent naturally gains increasing attention. UK Music is right to argue that the rehearsal space scheme should not only be rolled out, but should also be governed by the collective of industry associations. This must also take into consideration the locations that already have adequate but underutilised space and recording facilities, as well as how local authorities engage with and subsidise existing businesses providing these services, rather than needlessly replacing them. However, if this is the case, it must also consider that the rehearsal space and linked venue are part of a whole that is completed, not only by the progression the music industry can provide (through music businesses) but also by ensuring that information, advice and guidance, is on hand for at least the most promising talent from experienced music industry professionals. This model should also apply to those working in Urban Music Development, production training academies and indeed any organisation that claims it 'professionally develops artists'. This can either be done by dedicated agencies that already exist in given regions or by ensuring the service is offered as part of Local Authority funding, that forms part of a music industry approved package. Either way, it is essential.<br />
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The main drawback to the Local Authorities position is that they are duty bound to supplying a service and therefore provide access for all. This means that apart from recommendations, it is unlikely that special attention would be given to the most promising artists. Because of this it is extremely difficult to evaluate and monitor success other than record the numbers that come through the doors. This, for the music industry is not a strong enough performance indicator. There needs to be a system of guidance and proven models of good practise for progressive Local Authorities to tap into, that ensures they are providing the best development opportunities possible. Further to this robust monitoring and evaluation methodology, has to be in place to guarantee that their money is being spent in the most constructive way. Finally to ensure equality of opportunity for our developing artists a service like this needs to be accessible either through every local authority, Local enterprise partnership or at least region.<br />
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This is where it could be argued that the gap needs to be plugged. We need schemes that while initially are open for all, receive the support to be able to concentrate on the most talented. We know that, in this arena there are examples of good practise that have proven track records and an evidence base to justify the varying amounts of public investment they receive. The Bristol Music Foundation (BMF) run the 'Teenage Rampage' scheme which identifies, supports and networks talented young under-19 artists in the South West and ensures that they can access professional platforms that will support their development and give them a genuine and practical understanding of the music industry. This scheme provides the opportunity for BMF to notice the bands that stand out and have a better chance of progression. The BMF will advise them on career paths and push them to outlets such as BBC Introducing and mentor their progression roots including, improving their use of retail and marketing opportunities to build audiences. Higher Rhythm in Doncaster offer a similar scheme but go further by providing opportunities for digital releases on their Circuit Records imprint.<br />
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Generator4 provides multi layered development and support opportunities for artists, music producers and businesses throughout the North East of England and Yorkshire and is increasingly devoting time on building intensive support programmes for artists who have a real chance of success. This is being done for relatively modest amounts of money, is already showing positive results and could quite easily be rolled out nationally.<br />
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These schemes work mainly because there are already teams of people in many regions who are producing solid projects that assist emerging artists. In the North West, Liverpool Sound City embraces this important element by firstly producing Sound City Creative, a seminar series aimed at building music industry awareness for artist while secondly providing a showcase platform for music industry executives from all over the world, to see the best talent the North West has to offer. There are platforms in Sheffield such as Sensoria and the Tramlines festival that have similar resonance and in a small way, this is being pioneered in the East of England with Norwich Sound and Vision. However, it is also very sporadic, lacks the investment needed to make an impact right across the country and relies on the dedication and indeed belligerence, of a select band of determined professionals who truly wish to provide the lifeblood to the UK music Industry. Ensuring that we harness this willingness and underpin the structured development of talent is a big challenge but one that could be done correctly without the need for huge budgets.<br />
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Adding weight to the argument of structured intervention is the whole radio debate and how much increased programming is given over to emerging talent. Recently Radio One announced that their playlist will include an act each week that has come through the BBCs 'Introducing' website. 'Introducing' is an extremely important asset that will assist in the unearthing and developing of UK talent. However, while this latest move can only be applauded and will no doubt lead to increased exposure of emerging talent, the BBC need to do more to ensure that the whole Introducing package is universal. By that it should be BBC policy to ensure that all of its local radio stations have at least one Introducing show each week. Currently this decision remains with the director of each individual station and again leads to a patchy picture. This an area that would benefit from a structured and coordinated approach across the UK that should be lead by the BBC (and most importantly by Radio One, 1 Extra and 6 Music) but be supported by key operators in the nations and regions to ensure the right talent was not only fed through but had equal opportunity to be aired in their own region.<br />
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So what can be done? The first big step needs to happen soon while the UK's Department for Business Innovation and Skills and Department of Communities and Local Government decide and present their plans for new systems of support and funding post Regional Development Agencies7. The Arts Council recognises that they have a role in developing the artist through all art forms including all areas of music and indeed this is where they can play an important role in bridging gaps with the music industry. It should not be solely left to them to provide both solutions and funding for development schemes but they should certainly play a part and again at a time when they are resetting priorities the case should be made. UK Music argue quite correctly that we need to see funds made available to stimulate investment in talent as well as enterprise but should all of this funding go into businesses or should some be set aside for purely artist development through approved development agencies? In addition, Local Authority investment in music should, wherever possible be highlighting and nurturing the best talent we have throughout the UK. Furthermore systems of robust monitoring need to be in place so we can track development and where money has been spent. Do we need something of what we have seen much of recently, a cross party approach where senior figures from UK Music, Government, Arts Council and those who work and have success in the field of music development get together to produce a strategy for the future? A hub and spoke approach for artist and business development for the music industry perhaps?<br />
<br />
Whatever happens we need to act now to harness the growing amount of talent so we can guarantee it pushes all of us towards the goal of being the World's biggest producer of music and fully able to dominate the global market place.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/XNf2ME8iKec" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=17Win a Full Set of Grade Books - Winnershttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/QRa0E_eav9k/newsarticle.aspxWe'd like to thank everyone who entered the competition, there were some fantastic entries that made us feel proud to be part of Rockschool. With the standards being so high and the sheer amount of entrants we received, we thought we'd get into the Christmas spirit and have not one but two winners, (that's 18 books in total!) <br />
<br />
So, firstly congratulations to Jarryd West who we've named as our first winner of the 2010 grade book competition. We felt Jarryd's entry conveyed everything we aim to achieve at Rockschool, so a big well done from everyone here! <br />
<br />
<em>&quot;Rockschool was the first syllabus that actually gave me hope for a career in music. Until I was introduced to Rockschool all the music teachers I had, had tried to force me into a classical syllabus that didn't suit my personality or taste in music. Rockschool is a structured syllabus that includes everything from sight-reading to improvisation, to technical ability. A wide variety of styles are also covered, which means I don't feel like I'm trying to squeeze into somebody else's mold!&quot;</em><br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold">J.West</span> (Drummer)<br />
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Congratulations to our second winner, Carina Brown (Principal) of West Coast Music Academy. We hope a set Guitar books will help Carina develop her students learning further. <br />
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<em>&quot;Since our Music Academy incorporated Rockschool into our teaching and exam options, we've had a 50% growth in students and applications. Our students are so motivated, they form their own ensemble groups, even adding electric violin to instrumental parts and have endless fun playing and improvising on the music.&quot;</em><br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold">C.Brown</span> (Principal) West Coast Music Academy<br />
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Again, a big thank you to everyone who entered and check back here soon for more information on how our winners are getting on with their prizes.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/QRa0E_eav9k" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=14Live Music Forum Letter to Licensing Ministerhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/dY1LJjw2oQg/newsarticle.aspxLife Music Forum moderator Phil Little has responded to licensing minister John Penrose to express concerns that the government is leaning away from promises to improve the landscape for live music because of pressure from the Local Government Association.<br />
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<strong>Little points out that despite promises by both the Liberal Democrat and Conservative parties in their election manifestos to cut the red tape surrounding live music, the coalition government has yet to make good on those pledges.</strong><br />
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The Live Music Forum&#8217;s letter to Penrose reads:<br />
<br />
<em>Dear Minister<br />
<br />
Thank you for your email of 5th November 2010.<br />
<br />
Whilst it was good to hear your re-assurances about &quot;cutting red tape&quot; around live music, we are concerned that you are re-introducing public safety concerns in connection with live music, since it has already been established that there is no association between live music and disorder, and public safety is covered by other legislation, irrespective of licensing. If you know of any public safety risk arising from a live performance within a workplace that is not covered by public safety legislation, please let me know immediately and I will raise it with the Health &amp; Safety Executive.<br />
<br />
We are aware that there is a very strong lobby from the LGA against reducing licensing requirements on live music, yet they have never produced evidence to support their claims.<br />
<br />
The proposed tightening of regulations on Temporary Event Notices is also causing us great concern because they cover such a variety of events, and not necessarily including the sale of alcohol. Many of them will be adversely affected by the lengthening of application dates, for example. Making it more difficult to apply for a license obviously makes it harder to organise and set up small events for entrepreneurs and local community groups alike. Increases in license fees will not help the situation either.<br />
<br />
According to the DCMS Select Committee, PTA fund-raising events account for up to half of TENs. And despite the previous Governement's denials, there are a sizeable number of school events (not to be confused with PTA events) that are using TENs. Most publically available licensing registers can substantiate this. Every segment of Society will be adversely affected by making TENs more difficult to obtain.<br />
<br />
Even after all this time the majority of the public and larger group of musicians remain unaware of the extent of the damage done by the Licensing Act and we are obliged to remain committed to bring this to their attention.<br />
<br />
If the music industry is to flourish, attracting the desperately sought after investment highlighted by the Prime Minister, then it is essential that the national live music 'scene' is radically changed by the Small Gigs Exemption. No amount of PR by departments or corporations will have the desired effect.<br />
<br />
With respect to your own experience of the leisure industry, I know these things because I have been doing it all my life, from every angle, as a musician, composer, sound-engineer, producer, rehearsal and recording studio owner, promoter, publicist, agent, indie record company owner, Live Music Forum founder, journalist and publisher etc.<br />
<br />
Life in music has consistently got harder and harder over the last forty years but you now have the chance to change that, because a small gigs exemption would generate a completely new era for British music, resulting in new work for thousands of musicians, support and catering staff and the &#163; multi-billion music industry that enjoys the benefits.<br />
<br />
Kind Regards<br />
<br />
Phil Little<br />
<br />
Live Music Forum</em><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/dY1LJjw2oQg" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=12Publishing Giant Pearson Looks Set To Offer Degreeshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/sSNX9fTTuLE/newsarticle.aspxBy Hannah Richardson BBC News education reporter<br />
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<strong>One of the world's largest publishers, Pearson, looks set to be given degree-awarding powers, as the government seeks to open up the university sector to more private providers.</strong><br />
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Pearson, which owns exam board Edexcel, plans to start by offering four vocational degrees with a further education college.<br />
<br />
But it wants to award degrees itself, which would require a law change.<br />
<br />
The government says it is considering this.<br />
<br />
Universities Minister David Willetts has made no secret of his plans to open up the university sector to private providers.<br />
<br />
<strong>'Competitive'</strong><br />
<br />
A white paper is expected to set out plans to do this in the new year, with legislation likely to follow.<br />
<br />
Mr Willetts is said to be encouraged that firms like Pearson are interested in taking a bigger role in higher education.<br />
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He is expected to mention the firm by name in a speech to an education conference in central London later.<br />
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If Pearson, which publishes a wide range of text books, succeeds in gaining degree-awarding powers it will be the second for-profit company involved in England's higher education system.<br />
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The development comes less than a week after MPs voted to allow universities to raise tuition fees to a maximum of &#163;9,000 a year.<br />
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This sparked fears that many youngsters from deprived backgrounds would not be prepared to take on the accompanying higher level of debt, although ministers insist a revamped repayment system is fairer.<br />
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<strong>We want to take the next natural step to award full degrees</strong><br />
<br />
Rod Bristow, President of Pearson UK<br />
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Pearson anticipates it will be able to offer degree courses in business, engineering, IT and health and social care to begin with at &quot;very competitive&quot; prices.<br />
<br />
It is also considering offering degrees in nursing, education and hospitality and tourism.<br />
<br />
A Pearson spokesman said the courses would be highly flexible, available part-time and might suit those already working or those with children.<br />
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Rod Bristow, president of Pearson UK, said his firm had a strong track record of providing high quality vocational education in the UK through BTECs and HNDs.<br />
<br />
&quot;Now we want to take the next natural step to award full degrees.&quot;<br />
<br />
He said the firm would create a vocational degree, based on the vocational BTEC qualification, and that it would demand students met rigorous standards.<br />
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Mr Bristow added: &quot;Part of our commitment to this is to ensure that the BTEC degree is offered at a price which falls well within the current funding ceilings.<br />
<br />
&quot;This combined with local access, will keep the cost of high quality higher education to a level acceptable to the majority.&quot;<br />
<br />
<strong>Private Providers</strong><br />
<br />
Mr Willetts said: &quot;There will be a new rung on the ladder of opportunity. Further education colleges, universities and other training providers will be able to offer this tried-and-tested qualification at a higher level for the first time.<br />
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&quot;Students, employers and the economy all stand to benefit.<br />
<br />
&quot;In the forthcoming higher education white paper, we want to make it easier to award new high-quality and affordable degrees like BTECs. This is the key to extending opportunity, improving social mobility and raising skills.&quot;<br />
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Currently only universities and colleges applying for degree-awarding powers can offer degrees.<br />
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<strong>'Pursuit of profit'</strong><br />
<br />
But 262 colleges in England work with validating partners, usually universities, to offer higher education courses including BA degrees and foundation degrees.<br />
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It is expected that new legislation will relax the rules on who can take up that validating role. This may be where firms like Pearson come in.<br />
<br />
The Association of Colleges chief executive Martin Doel said: &quot;We are interested in proposals, from Pearson or others, that may help more colleges deliver more high quality, affordable and flexible higher education to more students.&quot;<br />
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Sally Hunt, general secretary of the UCU lecturers' union, said further encouraging the growth of for-profit companies would damage the UK's academic reputation and raise questions over standards.<br />
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&quot;These companies are clearly seeing an opportunity for growth following the disastrous decision to treble tuition fees and the government has said that it wants to encourage this.<br />
<br />
&quot;We believe that the pursuit of profit is incompatible with the maintenance of high standards in higher education and we think this is confirmed by the situation in the US, where private providers are being investigated by Congress following a series of high-profile scandals,&quot; she added.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/sSNX9fTTuLE" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=13Extreme Weather Conditions and UK Exam Dateshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/bJLE6_l7c3Y/newsarticle.aspxRockschool are aware that many areas of the UK are suffering difficulties with the current extreme weather conditions. If you cannot make your exam due to the severe weather in your area then please contact the Rockschool office as soon as possible on <span style="font-weight: bold">0845 460 4747</span>.<br />
<br />
Additionally it may be necessary in order to retain safety standards, for Rockschool to cancel exam days at the last minute. Candidates on the day will of course be offered a new exam date as soon as possible.<br />
<br />
<p>rockschool</p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/bJLE6_l7c3Y" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=11Fears For Future of School Music Lessonshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/Wj92c1V7zdg/newsarticle.aspx<strong>By Hannah Richardson</strong>, BBC News education reporter<br />
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There are concerns about the loss of music lessons as budgets are cut.<br />
<br />
<strong>School music lessons could be hit as local councils make savings and school budgets are redrawn, it is feared.</strong><br />
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One in five music services, which support schools, expect councils will completely axe their grants and half fear cuts of up to 50%, a survey suggests.<br />
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The Federation of Music Services warned that some services which help provide subsidised lessons could collapse.<br />
<br />
The government said all pupils should be able to learn an instrument or sing.<br />
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It has commissioned a review of music provision in schools, being carried out by Classic FM head Darren Henley, but this is not due to report until January.<br />
<br />
However, local authorities in England which face cuts of about a third, get their funding allocations in early December.<br />
<br />
<strong>&quot;This is a music lesson that should not be repeated&quot;</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>Virginia Haworth-Galt</strong>, Federation of Music Services<br />
<br />
It is clear from the federation's survey of 158 music services in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, that many are already planning cuts with some preparing to axe the funding completely.<br />
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Local authorities provide just one strand of funding for school music services, with the rest coming from central government grants and parental contributions.<br />
<br />
But the expected cuts come as schools face a huge shake-up of their budgets. A number of schemes dedicated to supporting school music face cuts or being channelled into a general schools budget for redistribution.<br />
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The Department for Education later said it had not yet taken a decision on the main &#163;82.5m Music Standards Grant and would not do so until the Henley review had reported.<br />
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But it would not guarantee that the money would be ring-fenced within schools.<br />
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<strong>'Steep decline'</strong><br />
<br />
Federation of Music Services (FMS) chief executive Virginia Haworth-Galt said: <em>&quot;We recognise the pressure many local authorities are under but would urge them to them to hold back their plans until we know the results of the Henley Review.</em><br />
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<em>&quot;Music and our children's education are too important to be jettisoned like this particularly when we know that 91% of the public back music education in schools.&quot;</em><br />
<br />
<strong>&quot;Music lessons will become the sole preserve of the middle classes&quot;</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>Michael Rose OBE</strong>, Conductor<br />
<br />
She added that the FMS would be very disappointed if the music grant went directly into schools' budgets without any ring-fencing for music education.<br />
<br />
<em>&quot;This situation occurred in the early 1990s with disastrous results; music went into a steep decline as the monies were spent elsewhere in schools. This is a music lesson that should not be repeated,&quot;</em> she added.<br />
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Conductor of the Bedforshire Youth Orchestra Michael Rose says music services in his area, Central Bedfordshire, are set to have budgets and teaching staff cut to zero.<br />
<br />
He said as music services were non-statutory they were particularly vulnerable in the present climate of cuts.<br />
<br />
He said: <em>&quot;If funding is lost in this way music lessons will become the sole preserve of the middle classes.&quot;</em><br />
<br />
He added: <em>&quot;Instrumental teaching in the county's schools is provided by a central staff of highly qualified instrumental teachers. It has resulted in literally many thousands of children having the experience of learning an instrument.&quot;</em><br />
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Ministers say they want all pupils to be able to learn a musical instrument.<br />
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Schools minister Nick Gibb said too many children in state schools were denied the opportunity to learn to play a musical instrument.<br />
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This was why he had launched a major review of how music is taught and enjoyed in schools to help make sure all pupils get an opportunity to learn to play an instrument and to sing.<br />
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Its recommendations would determine how future funding could be best used in the future, he added.<br />
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<strong>'Shocking'</strong><br />
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<em>&quot;Evidence tells us that learning an instrument can improve young people's numeracy and literacy skills and their behaviour.</em><br />
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<em>&quot;It is also simply unfair that the pleasure of musical discovery should be the preserve of those whose parents can afford it.</em><br />
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<em>&quot;As part of that review recommendations will be made to determine how future funding can best be used,&quot;</em> he said.<br />
<br />
He added that decisions on central funding for music would not be made until after the review had reported.<br />
<br />
General secretary of the National Union of Teachers Christine Blower said the cuts to music in schools were even more shocking in light of Michael Gove's announcement that he would be holding a review into music education in schools, claiming that it was a &quot;sad fact&quot; that too few state school children learnt an instrument.<br />
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She added: <em>&quot;Music in schools makes a contribution way beyond the straightforward exercise of learning an instrument. &quot;</em><br />
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<em>&quot;Children and young people can experience coming together in a creative environment which benefits them in other aspects of their school life.&quot;</em><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/Wj92c1V7zdg" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=10Video Competition Winner: John Crawfordhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/r_622xq6COM/newsarticle.aspxHere is our winner for the site launch video competition, John Crawford playing Guitar Grade 2 piece: &quot;Fake Tortoise&quot;. John has been playing the Rockschool syllabus for over 18 months now and has progressed immensely over this period. Congratulations John!<br />
<br />
John's video can be seen below:<br />
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<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/16850160?portrait=0" width="505" height="379" frameborder="0"></iframe><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/r_622xq6COM" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=9Competition: WIN A FULL SET OF GRADE BOOKShttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/87bkDTemfIU/newsarticle.aspxTo celebrate the launch of our new site we are giving away a full set of grade books (in the instrument of your choice) to one lucky winner. All you have to do to be in with a chance to win is <a shape="rect" href="mailto:marketing@rockschool.co.uk?subject=Grade%20Book%20Competition">email us</a> a paragraph between 3 and 5 lines saying why you like/take Rockschool grades. The closing date is 11/12/10 and the winner will be contacted by email. Include your name, address, which instrument you want books for and email address so we can send you your prize. Good luck! <br />
<br />
<table style="width:100%">
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<td style="width:33%"><img id="imgGuitarPackShot" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=91" style="width:150px;height:120px;" /></td>
<td style="width:34%"><img id="imgBassPackShot" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=92" style="width:150px;height:122px;" /></td>
<td style="width:33%"><img id="imgDrumsPackShot" src="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/image.ashx?F=93" style="width:150px;height:122px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />
Terms and Conditions apply.<br />
<br />
<em>Terms and Conditions:
<ol>
<li>Closing date for the competition is 11/12/10 the winner will be contacted within 7 days of the closing date</li>
<li>Rockschool's decision is final</li>
<li>The prize is for a full set of grade books, a full set is determined as:<br />
Debut to Grade 8 for Guitar, Bass and Drums<br />
For Piano it is Grade 1 - 8 with no grade 7<br />
For BBK it is Debut - 5 with the BBK companion guide<br />
For Vocals it is Levels 1, 2 and 3 for female or male</li>
<li>The winning paragraph will be used by Rockschool for promotional purposes and accredited to the writer with initial and surname</li>
<li>This prize is not exchangeable for cash</li>
<li>Rockschool accepts no responsibility for any damage that may occur to the prize in transit</li></ol></em><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/87bkDTemfIU" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=1Guitar Nation - 13th and 14th November at Olympia, Londonhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/bLY8NmSGhKg/newsarticle.aspxGuitar Nation 2010 is the ultimate guitar show, 2 days of great guitar playing, loads of gear, master classes, debates, gigs, seminars and much, much more. This Year Guitar Nation is being held at London, Olympia and <a shape="rect" href="https://www.theticketfactory.com/default/online/default.asp?doWork::WScontent::loadArticle=Load&BOparam::WScontent::loadArticle::article_id=F1C7ECC2-617F-402E-B546-44ED075DA068">tickets are on sale now</a>. All rockschool students can get an exclusive 50% discount as well as a free set of guitar strings; just enter the code &#8220;guitarshow&#8221; into the voucher box when ordering. Rockschool is going to be there, so come and see us and say hello. <br />
<br />
<a shape="rect" href="/news/events/event.aspx?EV=2">Read the rest of this article in events</a>.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/bLY8NmSGhKg" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=5Research Points to Importance of Listeninghttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/t5gD2sZ2q74/newsarticle.aspxChris Cadwell from musicedmagic.com takes us through the importance of listening. <br />
<br />
A new research paper in the September 22nd, 2010 Journal of Neuroscience titled Enhancing Perceptual Learning by Combining Practice with Periods of Additional Sensory Stimulation points to something that many music educators have believed for a long time yet few actually push as a part of their student&#8217;s practice routines. The main point of the study appears to be that exposing a learner to additional auditory stimulation while attempting to learn an auditory task has a compounding effect on how much and how quickly the learner improves in completing the task. In other words, if a student practices their trombone for twenty minutes and then listens to twenty minutes of a good trombone performance he or she will reap the benefits of the equivalent of forty minutes of pure practice time. <br />
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This article touches not only on what this research means for us as music educators but also provides several useful options for teachers to incorporate these listening activities back into the curriculum.<br />
<br />
<strong>So What Does This Mean To Teachers?</strong><br />
<br />
It means that those forward thinking teachers who have been buying iPods and loading them with music then loaning them out to students as a required part of their instrumental or vocal classes have had the right idea all these years. In fact, it appears to me that this idea should probably be expanded and made even more pervasive, being used in every performing music classroom, and that adding a listening component to regular practice assignments should become part of the routine.<br />
<br />
We have always known that in order to be a good player a student has to know what good players should sound like yet how many of us have pushed students to do active listening assignments outside of a large group ensemble rehearsal? At the same time we constantly beg and plead with our students to practice every night yet very few students do anywhere close to the amount of practice that we ask for. Maybe it is time to break the mold of what it means to practice as a beginner and add some flavour to the routine?<br />
<br />
Consider a situation where a beginning flutist goes home with an assignment to practice for two hours during the coming week. The student goes home, practices once or twice, usually has no way to tell if they are doing good or not, and stops well short of the weekly practice requirement. Now instead imagine a student being asked to practice at least an hour plus listen to an equal amount of flute recordings on a loaned CD. The research suggests that having her do so will provide the equivalent of two hours of progress and will likely also be more received more positively by the student as well (perhaps encouraging even more practice down the road). By listening to a good player she will be more likely to know what a good flute sound is and in turn be better able to self-critique her practice sessions. Sounds like a win-win situation to me!<br />
<br />
Now we should obviously be realistic about this research. As Jonah Lehrer mentions in his critique of the study on Wired:<br />
<br />
<em>&quot;This doesn&#8217;t mean, of course, that we can just play Yo Yo Ma in the background and expect to master the cello, or put the textbook underneath the pillow and expect to ace the algebra test. We still need to practice. We just might not need to practice as much as we think&quot;.</em><br />
<br />
Still, I am willing to do just about anything to help my students grow as musicians and to improve in their performance abilities. If listening is as important as the research says it is then why the heck don&#8217;t we do more of it? <br />
<br />
<strong>Why Don&#8217;t Teachers Require More Listening?</strong><br />
<br />
No one can deny the benefits of using listening projects in our instrumental and vocal education classes but the big question is, why the heck are teachers not doing it? Perhaps the answer is that even in our era of constant information access many teachers feel that they still do not have an easy and quick way to allow students access to the music that they need to listen to. Finding and compiling the desired listening tracks is one obstacle but beyond that also lies the legalities of making copies of the songs, burning them to CD or MP3 player, distributing them, and getting them back. Simply claiming fair educational use is no longer an acceptable excuse. To do things legally and ethically a teacher often has to jump through a number of technical and monetary hurdles, but there are easier ways to accomplish the same final goal. Read on to find out some suggested ideas of how to make listening work in your classroom.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/t5gD2sZ2q74" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=4rockschool's coming to Scotlandhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/BEfDbWnaC58/newsarticle.aspxRockschool is awaiting accreditation from the <a href="http://www.sqa.org.uk">Scottish Qualifications Authority</a>. The application is in progress and we hope to be offering our qualifications in Scotland very soon.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/BEfDbWnaC58" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=6Teaching new talent a lessonhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/Jl6BV11PyzE/newsarticle.aspxWith the Government announcing a major review of music education, qualifications are vital for gaining a foothold in the industry. But does the industry value education and how will it deal with spending cuts? <br />
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<td class="Text"><strong><a shape="rect" id="hypLink" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/file.ashx?F=TeachingNewTalentALesson.pdf">Teaching New Talent a Lesson - Music Week</a></strong><br />
(1.5MB, 3 pages, .pdf)</td></tr></tbody></table><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/Jl6BV11PyzE" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=7Total Guitarhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/1BmVRWJKC1Q/newsarticle.aspxRockschool guitar expert James writes a monthly column for Total Guitar. You can <a shape="rect" href="http://www.rockschool.co.uk/totalguitar/">find the articles and supporting materials for these columns here</a>.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/1BmVRWJKC1Q" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=8Success in the Isle of Man, First Time Aroundhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/DiD04Z7KrpM/newsarticle.aspxTHERE were good results all round for young musicians who took part in popular music exams on the Isle of Man. <br />
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Guitarists and drummers sat exams under the Rockschool syllabus via the Department of Education and Children's Music Service.<br />
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John Kinley, from the Music Service, said the exams allowed musicians to gain qualifications in popular music that are on a par with those taken by peers on orchestral or band instruments. <br />
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Students performed three contrasting pieces from Rockschool's repertoire and demonstrated their technical skills through scales or drum rudiments and their ability to sight read music and/or improvise.<br />
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John said: <em>&quot;Those who took the exams did fantastically well. There were 20 entrants from our schools and they achieved 12 distinctions, 5 merits and 3 passes. There was a good uptake from candidates taught by private teachers too.&quot;</em><br />
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Rockschool is the only music exam board in the British Isles that specialises in rock and pop exams.<br />
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Exams, which are also open to keyboard players, start at grade one, or, for some instruments, a debut grade - and go up to grade eight.<br />
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The next exams in the Island will take place at the Music Centre in Douglas on 7th and 8th July 2011.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/DiD04Z7KrpM" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=2Michael Gove Orders a Review of Music Teachinghttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/rockschool/~3/zHYu_EPwNLo/newsarticle.aspxLearning an instrument can improve children's concentration and behaviour.<br />
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<strong>Education Secretary Michael Gove has launched a review of music education, saying all children should have the chance to learn an instrument.</strong><br />
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The education department said quality music education helps improve concentration, behaviour, numeracy and language.<br />
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Darren Henley, Managing Director of Classic FM, is to head the review.<br />
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Mr Gove said it was a &quot;sad fact&quot; that many state school children do not get the opportunity to learn an instrument.<br />
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In a letter to Mr Henley, Mr Gove said the review should prioritise the use of public funding to give every child the opportunity to learn an instrument and to sing.<br />
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He said it should look at ways to improve classroom teachers' skills and confidence in giving music lessons - something the education watchdog Ofsted has criticised.<br />
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<strong>Pupil premium</strong><br />
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The letter also said music and cultural activity could further &quot;aspirations for the Big Society&quot; - Prime Minister David Cameron's vision for a society with increased citizen involvement and responsibility.<br />
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And it asked Mr Henley to examine whether the &quot;pupil premium&quot; - a plan to give extra funding to schools for every pupil they take from a deprived background - could be harnessed to use music to driver wider improvements in schools and communities.<br />
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&quot;It's a sad fact that too many children in state schools are denied the opportunity to learn to play a musical instrument,&quot; said Mr Gove.<br />
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&quot;Evidence suggests that learning an instrument can improve numeracy, literacy and behaviour. But more than that, it is simply unfair that the joy of musical discovery should be the preserve of those whose parents can afford it,&quot; he said.<br />
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The Federation of Music Services, which represents local authority music services across the UK, welcomed the review.<br />
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Chief Executive Virginia Haworth-Galt said the FMS was &quot;enthusiastic about exploring new ways to improve the planning and the cost efficient delivery of music in schools and the community&quot;.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/rockschool/~4/zHYu_EPwNLo" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.rockschool.co.uk/news/news-articles/newsarticle.aspx?NA=3